CN116324963A - Aerophones using inflatable objects - Google Patents

Abstract

An apparatus for assembling and playing an aeroacoustic musical instrument comprising a gas conduit forming a gas passage and a mechanism for positioning an enclosed inflatable article in operative association with the gas conduit. One or more inlets and outlets are arranged along the gas conduit to deliver air through the gas channels along one or more gas pathways. A first volume of pressurized gas is delivered along the air path from the air inlet to the air outlet to induce vibrations on an outer surface of a wall of the inflatable object. Vibration of the wall of the inflatable object causes the second volume of pressurized gas to vibrate as it exits the gas outlet. Vibrations produced by the second volume of pressurized gas as it exits the gas conduit may manifest as audible sounds and may be modulated to form music.

Description

Aerophones using inflatable objects

technical field

The invention relates to the field of vibration generation by aeroacoustic instruments using closed inflatable bodies.

Background technique

This Background of the Invention provides prior art information in the art pertaining to enclosed inflatable objects and mechanisms for producing vibrations and sounds in aeroacoustic musical instruments.

In the case of aeroacoustic instruments, elastic materials such as, but not limited to, lips, wood, plastic, or metal, vibrate when in contact with the force of pressurized gas, thereby producing musical tones. Despite the use of similar materials and air-based applications, to the best of our knowledge there is currently no way to use closed, inflatable objects as musical vibration generators in aerophonic instruments. However, inflatable objects such as toy balls and balloons have similar material properties to vibratory sound-producing objects such as gongs used in aeroacoustic instruments. Both toy balls and gongs use air and elastic materials to deform, either to bounce or to vibrate. In the case of balls and balloons, the elastic material surrounds the air, keeping the ball or balloon in a static three-dimensional silhouette.

At the current state of the art, traditional aeroacoustic instruments are difficult to assemble, often requiring difficult and careful placement of the precision-made reed on the mouthpiece. Reeds can be expensive, fragile and easily chipped or otherwise damaged, which hinders learning in young children and adults. The assembly of the gong uses fasteners to attach the reed to the mouthpiece or holder, and a slip-fit connection between the mouthpiece and the horn. To add to the subtle complexity of the assembly process, the tongue of the reed must be carefully oriented in line with the aerophone, which is difficult for young users to achieve. When playing complex musical wind instruments, the difficult assembly and arrangement can create a learning curve, especially for children or others unfamiliar with fasteners, pipe fittings, and wind instruments.

In addition, players must learn special techniques to position their mouths in or around the mouthpiece. In various mouthpiece configurations, the mouthpiece provides an air duct that serves as a tool for positioning the wooden or solid gong. The mouthpiece allows the player's lips to be positioned relative to the gong so that air (such as the player's breath) is successfully delivered over the reed and into the instrument, creating vibrations. Once the vibrations produced by the reed reach a frequency of 20 Hz or higher, audible sound can be effectively conveyed through a horn, woodwind, flute, or other air-sounding instrument. In instruments that contain lip reeds, such as French horns and trumpets, it may take a lot of practice for the user to learn how to use the lips and breath to produce vibrations through lip placement. Assembly, reed fragility, and lip placement techniques create a steep learning curve that may deter people from playing aerophones.

Enclosed inflatable objects such as balls and balloons are some of the most popular toys and focal points for games and activities. When the ball or balloon is bounced, thrown, caught or vibrated, the user can see, touch and hear the object. Enclosed inflatable objects like balls and balloons, and the various installations, instruments, and devices capable of functionally interacting with them occupy a unique place in the socio-cultural fabric of the world.

Referring to the following overview of the prior art, although related to closed inflatable objects or sound-emitting aeroacoustic devices, these two aspects have not been integrated in a manner that addresses the desire for more readily available, user-friendly aeroacoustic instruments.

US Patent No. 4,704,934A discloses an outer musical balloon that houses an electronic music production device within a nearly opaque inner balloon. When enough light penetrates both balloons, the music is activated.

US Patent No. 5219162A discloses a toy ball with a solid body made of foam plastic material and a noiser fully embedded in the foam plastic body. The noiser consists of a hollow rigid casing which may be formed from rigid plastic, and also includes a free-rolling marble inside the casing to produce a clicking sound as the ball moves.

US Patent No. 6126634A discloses a dilatation catheter for endoluminal use having an elongated shaft and a closed inflatable formation or section on the distal end of the catheter shaft with multiple working sections. The first working section elastically expands to a first pressure within the first pressure range when inflated, and the second working section elastically expands to a second pressure range when inflated.

Canadian Patent Document No. 2764839A1 discloses an underwater musical instrument including a hydraulic resonance bulb. Spherical bulbs are made or filled with a non-gaseous material, and when they are hit by a user, they produce an acoustic response by causing water or other liquid to flow through a rigid tube connected to a non-enclosed elastic reservoir.

US Patent Document No. 20060009319A1 discloses a novel ball assembly that generates noise when squeezed by venting and releasing air. The noiser is positioned within the self-expanding elastomeric shell defining the lumen, proximate to the first vent so that air displaced through the first vent passes through the noiser. Noises produce audible sounds when air passes through them.

US Patent Document No. 9814999B2 discloses a toy air buzzer building block that can generate multiple sounds from multiple building block configurations. The blocks are all quadrilateral polyhedrons that interlock to create blown instruments with multiple air passages within the interior space, whereby the larger blocks produce lower airflow when the air source supplies each aerophone high-pitched sounds, while smaller blocks produce higher-pitched sounds.

US Patent Document No. 20140233780A1 discloses a diaphragm used in an air horn or similar noise generating device. The diaphragm may have a concave or convex non-linear shape, with protrusions incorporated into the body of the rigid or semi-rigid diaphragm. The diaphragms may be made of any relevant material and retain their unenclosed non-planar shape both with and without the application of pressurized gas.

U.S. Patent No. 6,483,017B1 discloses a method and apparatus for tensioning or relaxing the diaphragm of a musical instrument (such as a traditional frame drum) using a pressurized fluid directed to one or more inflatable In the variable pressure chamber formed by the hollow body. The pressure is applied evenly over the entire circumference of the diaphragm, which is held in place by only one strap, so that it can be tensioned or loosened very quickly. The belt is arranged to vibrate freely relative to the body while the membrane is under pressure from the variable pressurization chamber.

As can be appreciated from the techniques outlined above, in relation to closed inflatable objects, the application of these objects does not result in the production of a series of sounds by vibration in such a way that they can be tuned or played as an instrument. Furthermore, of the technologies outlined above related to sound generation using pressurized gas, none of the solutions use a closed inflatable object as its vibration generating mechanism.

There remains a need to reimagine the traditional aeroacoustic instrument by replacing the standard reed with a durable, affordable, and viable alternative that helps the player bypass the problems associated with assembly, mouthpiece, and skill acquisition for such instruments. The sudden increase in the learning curve.

Contents of the invention

The present invention generally relates to the generation of vibrations by an aeroacoustic instrument using an inflatable body that remains closed during use without loss of air. The inflatable object is induced to vibrate by its association with a device comprising a gas conduit and means for positioning the object as air is delivered through the gas conduit of the gas conduit for placing the object along the air path (Defined by a gas conduit having a gas channel) is positioned between the one or more gas inlets and the one or more gas outlets of the gas conduit (eg, tubing). A first volume of pressurized gas is delivered through one or more inlet ports of the gas conduit, which creates vibrations on the outer surface of the wall of the inflatable object, and as a second volume of pressurized gas flows from one or more of the gas conduits. Multiple air outlets flow out. The inflatable object may be located anywhere along the air path of the devices disclosed herein so long as it causes resistance or partially blocks the flow of pressurized gas in or through the gas conduit. Depending on the configuration of the device and the position of the inflatable object along the air path of the air duct, and/or the pressure within the inflatable object, and/or the wall thickness or stiffness of the inflatable object, the degree of air compression required may vary differently (for example, by a player blowing air, a foot pump, an air compressor, or a piston) so that the walls of the inflatable object vibrate at a frequency sufficient to produce a sound audible to the human ear. A tool for positioning an inflatable object along an air path of an air duct results in an interface conducive to audible vibrations. The tools used and the nature of the interface may also vary (e.g., by the user holding the closed inflatable object in the hand at the outlet of the gas conduit, or by applying various structures for holding, holding, and moving the inflatable object position relative to the air outlet) to provide options for producing a range of sounds and tones. For example, by changing the surface tension area of the walls of the inflatable object, the inflatable object vibrates when impacted by the pressure of the first volume of pressurized gas before exiting the one or more gas outlets of the conduit as the second volume of pressurized gas . In this way, the device of the present invention provides the user with the experience of using an inflatable object to produce sound to play an aeroacoustic instrument in a multi-sensory, accessible (user-friendly) and dynamic manner.

In one aspect, an apparatus for assembling an aeroacoustic musical instrument is provided, comprising:

a gas conduit with a first end and a second end to provide gas passage;

one or more gas inlets disposed on the gas conduit at a first location and configured to deliver a first volume of pressurized gas to the gas channel;

one or more gas outlets disposed on the gas conduit at a second location and configured to release a second volume of pressurized gas from the gas channel; and

a mechanism for positioning an inflatable object such that the inflatable object is operably associated with a gas conduit,

wherein when the inflatable object is operatively associated with said gas conduit using a mechanism for positioning the inflatable object and a first volume of pressurized gas is delivered into said gas conduit through one or more gas inlets, The wall of the inflatable object vibrates and causes the second volume of pressurized gas to be within the gas channel before some or all of the second volume of pressurized gas exits the gas conduit through one or more of the gas outlet ports vibration.

In another aspect, there is provided an aerophone musical instrument comprising:

equipment, including:

a gas conduit with a first end and a second end to provide gas passage;

one or more gas inlets disposed on the gas conduit at a first location and configured to deliver a first volume of pressurized gas to the gas channel;

one or more gas outlets disposed on the gas conduit at a second location and configured to release a second volume of pressurized gas from the gas channel; and

an inflatable object using a mechanism for positioning an inflatable object to be operatively associated with a gas conduit,

wherein when a first volume of pressurized gas is delivered into the gas conduit through one or more inlet ports, the walls of the inflatable object vibrate and some or all of the second volume of pressurized gas exits through the one or more gas outlet ports The gas conduit previously causes the second volume of pressurized gas to vibrate within the gas channel.

In another aspect, a method of assembling an aerophone is provided, comprising the steps of:

Provide equipment, which includes:

a gas conduit with a first end and a second end to provide gas passage;

one or more gas inlets disposed on the gas conduit at a first location and configured to deliver a first volume of pressurized gas to the gas passage of the gas conduit;

one or more gas outlets disposed on the gas conduit at a second location and configured to release a second volume of pressurized gas from the gas channel; and

a mechanism for positioning the inflatable object so that the inflatable object is operably associated with the gas conduit; and

The mechanism for positioning the inflatable object is used to position the inflatable object in operative association with the gas conduit.

In another aspect, a method of generating vibrations is provided, comprising the steps of:

Assemble aerophone instruments; and

A first volume of pressurized gas is delivered through one of the first or more gas inlets into the gas conduit to cause a wall of the inflatable object to vibrate.

In one embodiment, when the inflatable object is operatively associated with the gas conduit using the mechanism for positioning the inflatable object, a vibration void is formed through which vibration of the region of the wall of the inflatable object induces the first Vibration of two volumes of air.

In yet another embodiment, the mechanism for positioning the inflatable object includes one or more vibrating fixation points for holding the inflatable object fixed in a desired position.

In another embodiment, one or more sections of the gas conduit each define a section of the gas channel.

In yet another embodiment, one of the one or more sections of the gas conduit is interchangeable with another section of the gas conduit.

In yet another embodiment, the device also includes one or more sound modulation mechanisms.

In yet another embodiment, one of the one or more sound modulation mechanisms includes means for changing one or more gas pathways, changing the position of an inflatable object and remaining operatively associated with a gas conduit, or changing when A means for wall tension of an inflatable object when operably associated with a gas conduit.

In yet another embodiment, one of the one or more sound modulating mechanisms includes one or more sections of gas conduit; one or more mouthpieces, sound holes, keys, valves, slides, horn attachments, and tuning Connector; tool for positioning an inflatable object to operatively associate with a gas conduit; tool for deflation or inflation and resealing of an inflatable object; actuating mechanism for stretching a wall of an inflatable object Operatively associated fasteners; sand, Styrofoam balls, and other rigid or semi-rigid structures placed inside inflatable objects.

In yet another embodiment, two or more devices are connected to engage their corresponding gas conduits and increase the available air passage.

In yet another embodiment, one of the one or more said gas inlets is configured to be operably associated with a source of pressurized gas.

In yet another embodiment, one of the one or more said air inlets is configured with a mouthpiece for receiving pressurized gas from the lungs of a user.

In yet another embodiment, one of the one or more said air inlets is configured with a connection for receiving pressurized gas from a pump.

Description of drawings

These and other features of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Figures 1A-1F: A is an embodiment of a device according to the invention, showing a configuration including a gas conduit providing a gas passage and an inflatable object holder; B is the same embodiment of the device shown in A, its configuration There are reversed air passages; C is an exploded view of an alternate embodiment of the device shown in A, including three segment gas conduits providing three segment gas passages; D is an assembled view of the device shown in C, It has an air passageway; E is an isometric view of an alternative embodiment of the device shown in D, including a triangular prism-shaped gas conduit within the inner wall for positioning an inflatable object; F is an alternative to the device shown in A A view of an embodiment that includes a gas conduit that provides gas passage using holes in its sides as air inlets.

Figure 2: An embodiment of a device according to the invention showing a configuration comprising a gas conduit with a chamber section and a threaded object holder.

3A-3G : Non-exhaustive assortment of embodiments of gas conduit segments having various shapes and/or features according to the present invention, where A is a hollow torus; B is cylindrical; C includes tube segments of different diameters; D Consists of a tapered section that tapers outward from a circular midsection; E includes a polygonal section that tapers outward from a hexagonal midsection; F indicates a curved form; G shows the chamber region of the gas conduit The rectangular form of the segment. Figures 4A-4E: A is an embodiment of a device according to the invention, with multiple gas inlets and gas outlets, and an object holder protruding into the gas channel of the gas conduit; B is an alternative implementation of the device shown in A Example, where an additional gas conduit segment providing an additional gas channel segment allows the inlet and outlet ports to be connected at both ends; C is an exploded view of an alternative embodiment of the device shown in B, where the gas channel is also bifurcated , but not a completely closed chamber, the inflatable object holder is the inner outer surface of the gas conduit segment in the shape of a hollow torus; D is an assembly drawing of the device shown in C; E is a replacement for the device shown in A Isometric view of an embodiment with multiple air outlets acting in line.

Figures 5A-5B: A is an embodiment of a device according to the invention, showing a torus-shaped gas conduit comprising a gas reservoir, a valve to regulate air pressure, a mouthpiece and holes serving as multiple gas outlets ; B is an alternative embodiment of the apparatus shown in A, having three valves connected to three corresponding gas outlets.

Figure 6: Another embodiment of a device according to the invention showing how the hand is used as a tool for positioning an inflatable object along the air path between the air inlet and the air outlet of the gas conduit.

Figures 7A-7D: A is an alternative embodiment of Figure 1 with an object holder anchored to the gas conduit by two discrete vibrating anchorage points; B is an isometric right side view of an alternative embodiment of the device shown in A , characterized in that the inflatable object holder within the gas conduit provides a plurality of continuous points of vibratory fixation along its inner diameter surface; C is an alternate embodiment of the apparatus shown in B, with an inflatable object holder that is passed through two discrete Vibrating anchor points protrude through the gas channel of the gas conduit; D is an isometric view of the device shown in 4B, with a series of continuous vibrating anchor points positioned around its torus-shaped inner diameter.

8A-8Q: Non-exhaustive assortment of object holding tool or holder embodiments according to the present invention, where A is a circular (ring) object holder; B is a solid torus shaped object holder; C is a polygonal object Holder; D is a star-shaped object holder; E is a partially circular object holder with straight and curved features; F is a hollow torus-shaped object holder; G is a crescent-shaped object holder; H is Object holder with three adjustable fasteners that can be attached to points on the wall of an inflatable object; I is an object holder with two asymmetrically distributed fasteners along the ring; J is the object holder's Front view using a fastener pushing two or more surfaces together as a means of positioning an inflatable object relative to the gas conduit of the device according to the invention; K is an object holder with two non-flat surfaces, It clamps the inflatable object as a tool for positioning the inflatable object; L is an object holder with two threaded pipe sections that grips the inflatable object against one or more pipe surfaces; M illustrates five an eyebolt attached to the wall of the inflatable object to use compression to hold the inflatable object while pulling the object in one or more directions to increase or decrease the surface tension of the wall of the inflatable object; N is divided into two Half of a tapered polygonal object holder; O is an isometric top view of a single tapered polygonal object holder, which holds an inflatable object; P is an isometric side view of an object holder made of pipe segments of different sizes and shapes , which can hold an inflatable object between its complex-shaped surface areas and/or vertices; Q is a front view of a helical object holder.

Figures 9A-9B: A is an alternate embodiment of the device shown in Figure 1A with the addition of a closed inflatable body; B is the same embodiment of the device shown in A configured with reversed air passages.

Figure 10: An exploded view of an embodiment of an aeroacoustic instrument according to the invention, showing a configuration comprising a threaded gas conduit, an open-ended rectangular object holder and an inflatable object.

FIG. 11 : An assembled embodiment of the aerophone shown in FIG. 10 .

Figures 12A-12J: Non-exhaustive assortment of embodiments of inflatable objects according to the present invention that can be connected to various embodiments of apparatus of the present invention to assemble musical instruments according to the present invention, where A is a spherical inflatable object; B is an inflatable object made of a variety of materials; C is an elongated cylindrical inflatable object; D is a side view of a polygonal inflatable object; E is an oval inflatable object with multiple distinct curvature of ; F is an inflatable object having a ring mechanism for connecting the inflatable object to the object holder fastener shown in FIG. 8H ; G is an inflatable object whose pressure may be below atmospheric Rigid or semi-rigid structures inside and/or attached to an inflatable object's outer walls to retain its 3D shape; H is a polyhedral inflatable object; I is an inflatable object that may have solid or liquid particles inside it; J is a hollow circle An inflatable object in the shape of a torus.

Figure 13: An embodiment of an aeroacoustic instrument according to the invention having a mechanism for positioning an inflatable object, the tool protruding through the outer wall of the gas conduit into the gas passage chamber to an extent that can be extended from the cavity of the gas conduit Segment external adjustment.

14A-14B: A is an embodiment of an aerophone according to the present invention, wherein an inflatable object is placed within a polygonal chamber segment of the gas conduit, and different segments of large and small diameters (e.g. polygonal, star-shaped) are used. , elliptical or other non-circular shape of the gas conduit segment) as a tool for positioning the inflatable object; B is a top view of an embodiment similar to A, which uses friction to fix the inflatable object in the chamber section of the gas conduit Inside.

Figure 15: An embodiment of an aerophone according to the invention with multiple air passages in the air passage section.

Figure 16: Embodiment of an aeroacoustic instrument according to the invention, where the outer wall of the inflatable body is positioned over the opening of the gas conduit with vibrating fixed points, the air passage is moved from the outer tube gas conduit section to the inner tube gas conduit section.

Figure 17: Embodiment of an aeroacoustic instrument according to the invention, where the outer wall of the inflatable body is positioned over the opening of the gas conduit with vibrating fixed points, the air passage is moved from the inner tube gas conduit section to the outer tube gas conduit section.

Figure 18: Isometric view of an embodiment of an aerophone according to the invention, with a hollow torus shaped gas conduit segment positioning an inflatable object over the opening of the gas conduit with a vibrating fixed point.

Figure 19: Another view of the aerophone shown in Figure 18, showing the air passages.

Figures 20A-20B: A is an exploded isometric view of the aerophone shown in Figures 18 and 19, having a threaded tube section positioning system; B is an alternate embodiment of A, having a male slide that includes a female thread Mating insert.

Figure 21 : Isometric view of an embodiment of an aeroacoustic instrument according to the present invention wherein an inflatable object is positioned over the opening of the gas channel using the complex shaped surface area and apex of the gas conduit as an object holder.

22A-22D: A is an isometric view of an embodiment of an aerophone according to the invention configured to vibrate when pressurized gas is delivered to a vibrating void, which is a curved recess in the gas conduit. Indentations formed when they come into contact with an inflatable object; includes a detailed view emphasizing the bending indentation in the gas conduit relative to the front view on the right. B is a top view of the device shown in A; C is a side view of the musical instrument shown in A; D is a top view of a similar musical instrument shown in A, featuring a gap between two opposing surfaces, one of which is the outer wall of an inflatable object The vibration clearance distance is more than 10 mm, so it is not constructed to generate vibration.

23A-23H : Various embodiments of different shaped tools for generating vibrations in an aeroacoustic instrument according to the present invention by forming or not forming indentations on the inner wall of the dual function structure serving as a gas conduit segment and an object holder. When the inflatable object is inserted into the object holder, different shapes of vibration gaps and vibration gap distances are formed between the inflatable object and the musical instrument, where A is the bending indentation forming the corresponding bending vibration gap, including about The vibration gap in the main view on the side emphasizes the detailed view of the vibration gap distance; B is the corner indentation forming the corresponding angular vibration gap, including a detailed view of the vibration gap emphasizing the vibration gap distance relative to the vibration gap in the main view located on the left; C is the same vibration gap as B, showing another vibration gap distance between the inflatable object and the inner wall of the gas conduit, including a detailed view emphasizing the vibration gap distance relative to the vibration gap in the main view located on the left. D shows multiple curved indentations forming multiple curved vibration voids, including a detailed view emphasizing the distance of the vibration voids relative to the vibration voids in the front view located on the left; E shows the resulting shape of the inflatable object The biconvex vibration void, including a detailed illustration of the vibration void distance is emphasized relative to the vibration void located on the left in the front view. F shows the biconvex vibration gap formed between two or more opposing surfaces of an inflatable object, and the vibration gap distance between the inflatable object and the inner surface of the gas conduit; A biconvex vibratory void formed within a hole in the center of the torus-shaped inflatable object, including a detailed view emphasizing multiple vibratory void distances relative to the vibratory void in the front view located on the left; H shows a Or the plano-convex vibration gap formed between the facing surfaces of multiple inflatable objects.

Figures 24A-24F: Various isometric views of embodiments of aerophonic musical instruments constructed with differently shaped vibration voids according to the present invention, where A is a circular vibration void; B is a side view of the instrument shown in A, It has air passages; includes a detailed view emphasizing the vibration clearance and vibration clearance distance relative to the main view on the right. C is an alternate embodiment of the instrument shown in A and B; D is an alternate embodiment of the instrument shown in C, which has a biconvex vibration void; E is another embodiment of the instrument shown in C, which has an angular Vibration void; F is an alternate embodiment of the instrument shown in C, which has a bell-shaped vibration void.

25A-25D: A is another embodiment of an aerophonic musical instrument according to the present invention, which is configured to vibrate when a pressurized gas is delivered, wherein an inflatable object can be positioned to the side of the instrument; B is the An alternate embodiment of the aeroacoustic instrument is shown, which has a threaded object locator that provides an option for placement of an inflatable object on the opening of the gas conduit to accommodate vibration. C is an alternate embodiment of the aerophone shown in B, which has an adjustable threaded pipe segment positioning system not configured to generate vibration; D is the embodiment shown in C, which is configured to Vibration occurs with sufficient quantity and pressure of pressurized gas.

Figure 26: An embodiment of an aeroacoustic instrument according to the present invention configured to vibrate when a sufficient quantity and pressure of pressurized gas is delivered. Use the inner surface of the chamber section of the gas conduit closest to the inflatable object to position the inflatable object while allowing air to bypass the wall of the inflatable object and the rest of the inflatable object that is not in contact with the wall and is further away from the inflatable object The gas channel space between the inner surfaces flows around the inflatable object.

Figure 27: A side view of the torus-shaped aerophone instrument shown in Figures 18-20 showing how the instrument can be configured to vibrate when sufficient pressurized gas is delivered.

Figure 28: A is another front view of the aeroacoustic instrument shown in Figure 27, showing how this exemplary prototype embodiment of the instrument is configured to vibrate when a sufficient quantity and pressure of pressurized gas is delivered ; includes a detailed view on the main view on the right emphasizing the instrument's vibration void.

Figure 29: Another view of the musical instrument shown in Figure 16, configured to vibrate.

Figure 30: Another view of the musical instrument shown in Figure 17, configured to vibrate.

Figure 31 : View of an embodiment of an inflatable object configured to be inflated using a sealed air method according to the present invention.

Figure 32: Isometric view of an embodiment of an inflatable object configured to deflate using a method of sealing air according to the present invention.

Figure 33: View of an embodiment of an inflatable object configured to expand using anchor points connectable to an object holder according to the present invention.

Figure 34: Embodiment of an aeroacoustic musical instrument according to the present invention showing an object holder configured with a compression interface as a tension changing mechanism; including emphasizing the threaded tension changing mechanism and the vibration gap with respect to the front view on the right Detail view.

Figures 35A-35B: A is an exploded front view of an embodiment of an air-acoustic musical instrument configured with a sound modulation mechanism using a sound hole in accordance with the present invention; includes an emphasis on tuning the instrument relative to the front view on the right A detailed view of the male slip-fit insert of A; B is a view of the assembled embodiment of the instrument shown in A.

Figure 36: Isometric view of an embodiment of an aeroacoustic instrument according to the invention, configured with means for modulating sound with a sliding joint; includes a detailed view emphasizing the vibratory void of the instrument with respect to the front view located above.

Figure 37: An embodiment of an aeroacoustic instrument according to the invention configured with a sound modulation mechanism using a sound hole and valve located downstream of the inflatable body with respect to air flow from an air source; The front view from the side emphasizes the detailed view of the instrument's vibration voids.

Figure 38: Embodiment of an aeroacoustic musical instrument according to the invention configured with a sound modulating mechanism using a valve located upstream of the inflatable object with respect to air flow from an air source; including emphasis on the front view located on the right A detailed view of the instrument's vibration void near the inflatable body and threaded connection interface.

Figure 39: An embodiment of an aeroacoustic instrument according to the invention provided with a sound modulating mechanism using connected valves to open or close a gas channel section leading to three air-filled bodies Three vibration voids; includes a detailed view of one of the three vibration voids emphasized on the main view on the right.

Figure 40: An embodiment of an aeroacoustic instrument according to the invention, configured with a sound modulation mechanism by repositioning the inflatable object relative to the opening of the gas conduit.

Figure 41 : Embodiment of an aeroacoustic musical instrument according to the present invention configured with a sound modulation mechanism using slide tubes and soundholes; including a detailed view emphasizing the first and second vibration voids relative to the front view located on the left, the The first and second vibration voids may generate vibrations that modulate the third vibration at the third vibration void.

Figures 42A-42E: Various embodiments of sound modulation mechanisms using various gas conduit segment shapes and/or playable interfaces according to the present invention, where A is a tube with a resonant bulb; B is a tapered segment form with a sound hole ; C is a nonlinear pipe; D is a curved form with a sound hole; E is a pyramidal segment form with a sound hole.

43A-43B: A is an isometric view of an alternative embodiment of the aerophone shown in FIG. 22A with a plurality of indentations disposed on the inner wall of the gas conduit segment to provide a gap between the inflatable object and the inner wall of the gas conduit Multiple vibration voids formed; B is a top view of A, viewed from the perspective of the gas channel through which the inflatable body is disposed.

Figure 44: Embodiment of an aerophone according to the invention configured with a plurality of inflatable objects emphasizing in detail how the vibratory voids operate in series; includes a detailed view emphasizing the first vibratory void relative to the front view on the right , configured to generate vibrations using a first inflatable body modulating a second vibration void; includes another detailed view of the second vibration void relative to the front view located on the right, configured to generate further vibrations using a second inflatable body vibration.

Figure 45: Isometric view of an alternative embodiment of the musical instrument shown in Figures 43a-43B with multiple vibration voids configured for vibration generation using two inflatable objects.

Figure 46: An embodiment of an aerophone according to the present invention configured with multiple vibration voids that can generate multiple vibrations using a single inflatable object; includes an emphasis on the instrument's surrounding an inflatable with respect to the front view on the right A detailed view of the three vibrating voids of the type object.

Figure 47: View of an alternative embodiment of the aerophone shown in Figure 46, configured to have multiple vibration voids capable of producing multiple vibrations using two inflatable objects; The front view of emphasizes a detailed view of the vibration void that can be vibrated using a second inflatable body.

48A-48B: A is another embodiment of an aerophone according to the invention configured with two vibration voids using two inflatable objects; B is an alternative embodiment of A with The two playable interfaces of .

Figure 49: Isometric view of another embodiment of an aerophone according to the present invention configured with vibrating voids that can be vibrated using an inflatable object.

Figure 50: Isometric view of an embodiment of an inflatable object having a plurality of vibration voids distributed around it according to the present invention.

Figure 51 : An embodiment of an aeroacoustic instrument according to the present invention, having an air inlet, an air outlet, and vibration voids configured to generate vibrations using an inflatable object.

52A-52B: A is a method of supplying pressurized gas to an aerophone according to the present invention using a hose connected to an air source; B is another method of supplying pressurized gas to an aerophone using an air pump shoe.

Figure 53: Three similar prototype embodiments of aeroacoustic instruments according to the invention, showing relative proportions and size choices.

Detailed ways

The present invention provides devices, systems, and methods for assembling and playing an aeroacoustic instrument configured to generate vibrations, including audible sound vibrations, using an inflatable object.

definition

Unless otherwise mentioned, all scientific and technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs.

The word "a" when used herein with the term "comprising" may mean "one", but it is also consistent with the meanings of "one or more", "at least one" and "one or more". As used herein, the terms "comprising", "having", "including" and "containing" and their grammatical variations are inclusive or open-ended, but do not exclude remaining, non-recited elements and/or method steps. The term "substantially consisting of" when used herein in connection with a device means that there may be remaining elements and/or method steps, but such additions do not materially affect the mode of operation of the recited device. The term "consisting of" when used herein in connection with a device excludes the presence of remaining elements and/or method steps. Apparatus described herein as including certain elements and/or steps may also consist essentially of these elements and/or steps in some embodiments, and consist of these elements and/or steps in other embodiments, regardless of whether these elements whether it is specifically mentioned.

As used herein, the term "about" refers to a variation of approximately +/- 10% from a given value. It should be understood that such variations are always included in any given value provided herein, whether or not specifically mentioned.

Recitations of ranges herein are intended to express both a range and individual values falling within that range, unless otherwise indicated herein, by the same number of places used for numerals expressing the range.

Use of any example or exemplary language such as "such as", "exemplary embodiment", "illustrative embodiment", "one embodiment", "another embodiment", "prototype embodiment", "in an implementation "In an example" and "such as" are intended to illustrate or represent aspects, embodiments, variations, elements or features related to the present invention, but not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

As used herein, the terms "connected", "connected" and "connected" refer to any direct or indirect physical association between elements or features of the musical instruments of the present invention. Accordingly, these terms may be understood to mean elements or features that are partially or fully contained within each other, attached, coupled, placed, connected together, protrude, perpendicularly connected, or inserted, etc., even when described as connected elements or features intervening between other elements or features.

As used herein, the terms "vibration", "oscillating" and "vibration" refer to the periodic movement of particles of material from a position of equilibrium toward alternately opposite directions when a state of equilibrium is disturbed. Therefore, when a force strikes any material, a vibration is generated and can be measured as a mechanical phenomenon with a frequency above 0 Hz. For example, in the case of an inflatable object, the vibration manifests itself as a periodic motion of the inflatable object in response to the application of pressure to the outer surface of the inflatable object using pressurized gas as a means of inducing the vibration, resulting in a possible frequency above 0 Hz. Measurement frequency.

As used herein, the term "sound" refers to vibrations that propagate as sound waves through a transmission medium such as a gas, liquid or solid. This term also refers to the reception and perception of sound waves by the human body and brain. The measurable frequency range of sound waves between about 20 Hz - 20 kHz and any decibel range above 0 decibels (dB) can be marked as audible by those with little hearing impairment. The frequency range below about 4000 Hz may be more of a vibrational sensation than an audible sound for those with severe hearing impairment (eg, hearing loss greater than about 61 decibels). The decibel range above about 194 decibels is generally not measurable, and the decibel range above about 140 decibels is physiologically harmful to the listener even after short-term exposure and thus would not be considered an ideal target range for the listener. It should be noted that sound volume, measured in decibels, decreases as the distance between the listener and the sound source increases, and the listener can move or spatially position themselves in a more desirable sound decibel range relative to the sound source Inside, 40dB-95dB may be comfortable for listeners with little hearing impairment. In the present invention, the frequency and decibel ranges of different musical instrument embodiments can vary widely depending on the configuration of the components in that embodiment, and these ranges can further vary depending on how the vibrations change. For example, in one embodiment of the musical instrument, which measures approximately 19 inches between its longest points, and has the sound holes one might encounter on a flute, the resulting frequency range might be between 200 Hz - 1000 Hz. If most or all of the holes of this embodiment are covered by the user's finger, then the frequency sub-range becomes closer to 800 Hz - 1000 Hz. Most aerophone instruments played by the user produce sound at about 0.001 psi to 2.5 psi above atmospheric pressure. If the user's breath is used as a tool for sending pressurized gas of about 0.75psi into a musical instrument tool to vibrate an inflatable object, the pressure inside the inflatable object is about 0.7psi, and the thickness of the walls of the inflatable object is about At 0.04mm, the decibel level of the instrument may be measured to be between about 60dB-85dB. If the user blows into the musical instrument of another embodiment at about 7.5 psi using another source of pressurized gas (such as a manual hand pump or foot pump), the internal pressure of the inflatable object in the musical instrument measured at about 7.0 psi will be Produces sound decibels with an amplitude of about 70dB-95dB. As used herein, the terms "elastic", "elastic" and "resiliently" refer to the physical deformation properties of a material, and the ability of an object or material to return to its original shape and size after deformation (eg, compression or expansion). For example, at the very end of deformation, air can be compressed infinitely and returns to its original state when the compression is removed, so air is an extremely elastic material. In the present invention, it should be understood that while any component of the invention may be discussed with reference to these terms, the primary emphasis will be on the vibration and sound generation capabilities of the enclosed inflatable object. It should also be understood that elastic can refer to, but is not limited to, any number of fully or partially moldable materials, ranging from easily deformable or semi-rigid materials (e.g., silicone, latex, rubber) to more rigid materials (e.g., plastic, metal , carbon fiber) range.

As used herein, the term "tension" refers to the physical property of an elastic material when it is compressed, expanded, pushed, pulled, repositioned, stretched, and/or squeezed (as these forces are transmitted by any three-dimensional object) how to change. It is to be understood in the present invention that when any variation of the term tension is used, the value of the tension of the inflatable objects when positioned in any embodiment of the instrument is related to the elasticity of the instrument due to tensioning these inflatable objects. The correlation between the altered vibrations produced by the instrument and the quality of the sound will be a major focus.

As used herein, the term "pressure" refers to any force applied perpendicular to the surface of an object or perpendicular to the tangent plane of a surface of a curved object, as well as the measurement of a pressure gauge relative to atmospheric pressure. For example, when referring to a measurement of 2psi, it means 2psi above atmospheric pressure. The pressure of pressurized gas can exert forces on the outer and inner walls of an enclosed inflatable object, thereby changing its vibration, elasticity, and/or tension, while the measurable amount of this pressurized gas can be measured in pounds per square inch (psi) . In the present invention it is to be understood that pressure can refer either to the force of the pressurized gas within the gas conduit of the instrument vibrating against the outer surface of a closed inflatable object, or to the force required inside the same closed inflatable object, The force of pressurized gas used to maintain its inflated form. The term pressure can also refer to the amount of impact force that any part of an instrument exerts on another part of the instrument to change the compression. For example, certain embodiments of the invention include mechanisms for positioning an inflatable object in which the amount of pressure applied to an area of its outer surface can be adjusted using a threaded device, resulting in an increased amount of compression.

As used herein, the terms "modulation" and "modulation" refer to any adjustment to the frequency, pitch, amplitude, timbre, envelope, velocity, wavelength and/or phase of vibration and/or sound. For example, in the present invention, a sound modulating mechanism may refer to any part of any embodiment in which a user may manipulate the air delivery path flowing through the instrument (eg, by covering holes) to increase the audible vibration frequency produced by the instrument.

As used herein, the term "modular" refers to any physical unit of an object configured to have standardized dimensions for flexibility and variety in use. In the present invention, some embodiments of the present invention include modular sections that can be removed, adjusted and/or interchanged with other similar or different parts having the same or interchangeable connector means to change the function of the instrument, sound and/or decorative. For example, a modular embodiment of the present invention having a linear 7 inch cylindrical pipe section connecting the inlet to the air outlet can be interchanged with a non-linear 20 inch tapered pipe section using the same connection fittings, which in turn This in turn modulates the sound-producing vibrations when pressurized gas is delivered through the instrument, reducing the resulting frequency due to the increased length of the tube, while changing its timbre due to the different shape of the tube. As used herein, the term "section" refers to each part into which things are conceptually divided or may be divided to describe various features and aspects of the devices, systems and musical instruments of the present invention. In other words, sections and sections are understood to refer to functional divisions and/or configurations of components or parts of an apparatus, system, or musical instrument according to the present invention. A section may or may not be marked by a distinctly identifiable physical feature along the structure or on a component or component of the structure. It should be understood that a segment can be viewed as being further subdivided into sections with different functions. Alternatively, a segment may refer to a portion that spans or spans two visually distinguishable components of the devices, systems, and instruments of the present invention. For example, in the present invention, one end section of the gas conduit may include an air inlet, a mouthpiece and an extended hose, all of which extend the delivery path of the air through the gas channel. Furthermore, it should be understood that when any of these segments lengthen the gas conduit, they in a corresponding manner lengthen the gas passages inside the gas conduit, through which there may be one or more gas passages. For example, in the present invention, interchangeable segments can be used to construct a modular musical instrument system in which the overall length of the air conduits is generally substantially equal to the overall length of their corresponding air passages and can be configured to deliver air through multiple air passages, This may or may not correspond to the total length of the gas channel.

As used herein, the term "interface" means any area, region, or space where there is a change in structure or composition from one substantially distinguishable material to another through which the materials are operable in a system (e.g., a device) Connect or connect and interact. The change can be through a clear and sharp division of the interface area, or can be divided into stages and gradients. In the present invention, this term is understood to refer to an area (playable interface) which allows, inter alia, a user to generate and/or manipulate sound-producing vibrations with body parts. Also includes interfaces between, or being part of, devices, systems and instruments. The interface may or may not be configured or changed by interchanging components or using interface components, such as new sections, connections, hoses, valves, and the like. Interface components can also be used to vary the amount of vibration of the instrument at its vibration void (vibration point) or source (e.g., where an inflatable object is connected to air delivered via a conduit), as well as sections of the instrument that can be directly modulated by the user to change Airflow, vibration and sound characteristics of musical instruments. For example, in some embodiments, the gas conduit segment may have sound holes with or without additional structures that can be manipulated by the user's fingers to alter the sound characteristics and may be referred to as a playable interface.

It is contemplated that any embodiment of the compositions, devices, articles, methods and uses disclosed herein may be implemented by those skilled in the art as such or by making such changes or equivalents without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention .

While certain embodiments are set forth in detail in the following description and in the drawings to illustrate and illustrate the invention, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the structural details and specific illustrations of these embodiments below.

Equipment for assembling aeroacoustic musical instruments

The present invention provides an apparatus for assembling an aeroacoustic instrument that generates vibrations using a closed inflatable body. The apparatus includes a gas conduit, wherein gas is delivered from one or more gas inlets to one or more gas outlets, and a device for positioning an inflatable object in operative association with the gas conduit to assemble the gas. The mechanism of the sounding instrument.

gas conduit

An apparatus for assembling an aeroacoustic musical instrument includes a gas conduit including a first end and a second end for delivering pressurized gas through the gas conduit. The first end is configured with one or more gas inlets for delivering at least a first volume of pressurized gas via the gas channel to the outer surface of the wall of the inflatable object, and the second end is configured with one or more A plurality of gas outlets for releasing the second volume of pressurized gas from the gas channel. One or more gas conduit segments are associated as their internal counterparts with one or more gas channel segments connecting the gas inlet(s) to the gas outlet(s) while defining Air passage for pressurized gas from an external source. The means to modulate vibration and sound using an enclosed inflatable object may be integrated into one or more portions of the gas conduit, or otherwise operatively associated or connected to one or more segments of the gas conduit.

The gas conduit segment may be cylindrical, conical, polygonal, oval, helical, or any number of other shapes, as exemplified by various embodiments in FIGS. 3A-3G . The gas conduit segment may also include any one or combination of air reservoirs, mouthpieces, valve gas channels, playable interface areas, and/or chamber segments (as shown in FIGS. 13-15 ), and may be configured to allow assembly according to Modular devices and musical instruments and systems of the present invention. Furthermore, any segment may be made of any material such as, but not limited to: glass, plastic, metal, wood, resin, composite, stone, and rubber. Typical dimensions of devices or device assemblies according to the present invention can range from a hand-held embodiment of about 1-20 inches measured at its longest position to embodiments up to several hundred meters in all directions for large installation systems. It should be understood that these embodiments are exemplary in that the device and musical instrument may technically be of any conceivable size provided there is the corresponding technical capability to deliver sufficient air pressure through the system of the device and musical instrument to produce the desired vibration effect

The gas channel has a one-to-one correspondence with the total length of the gas conduit and represents the measurable internal distance that air can travel from one end of the conduit to the other. Adding or removing any segments that lengthen, shorten, or otherwise reshape the gas conduit also alters the gas passage. The conveying and guiding of air through the gas channel is referred to as the air channel and may or may not correspond to the full length of the gas channel depending on where the air inlet and outlet are arranged along the gas duct. That is to say, the air passage can be similarly lengthened or shortened by interchanging the gas conduit sections. In one embodiment, the air passage may be less than or exceed the full length of the gas passage, and/or change directionality as the air passage moves through one or more segments of the gas passage. The air passage can be smaller than the gas passage when pressurized gas is delivered through an air inlet that is not located at the end of the gas conduit, or when the gas passage is divided into two or more sections (forks, trifurcations, etc.) full length. Conversely, when pressurized gas is delivered into the instrument from a distance, or is released through the vent back to the atmosphere outside the gas channel, the air path may exceed the length of the gas channel.

The gas inlet(s) are located where the first volume of pressurized gas (eg, breath) begins to travel through the gas channel located within the gas conduit, and may be configured with a mouthpiece to facilitate the delivery of pressurized gas supplied from a gas source. pressurized gas. All sections of the air inlet may be rigid (eg plastic tubing), flexible (eg corrugated plastic hose attachments) or any combination of the two. A source of pressurized gas other than human breath, such as an analog or electric air pump, may also be connected to the gas inlet. The gas outlet(s) are located where the second volume of pressurized gas is released from the gas channel and may be made of the same or different material as the gas inlet(s). The air outlet may be in the form of a tube opening or other hole in the gas conduit, and may or may not be configured with other structures such as valves, or manipulated (such as by a user's finger) to prevent, impede or divert air along the air supply. Determine the flow of air passages.

In certain embodiments, the gas conduit includes more than one inlet, more than one outlet, and/or other sections to further lengthen or shorten the available air delivery pathway. When pipes, tubes, and/or chambers are used to construct gas conduits, the air pathways that may enter or pass through the gas conduits may include inlets, outlets, and The middle section between the air ports. These different segments can protrude into each other or be nested within each other. Connecting gas conduit segments can be accomplished using a variety of other connection methods, such as threaded connections, slip fits, snap fits, fittings, magnetic coupling mechanisms, and other segment interface components. The modular gas conduits can also be disassembled or folded to facilitate easy transport, especially when combined with flexible manufacturing materials.

Mechanism for positioning inflatable objects for assembly of aeroacoustic instruments

Apparatus for assembling an aeroacoustic instrument comprising a mechanism for positioning an inflatable object operatively associated (connected) to a gas conduit so that it can securely hold the inflatable object stationary while inflating The outer surface (wall) of a type object vibrates when exposed to a volume of pressurized gas.

The mechanism for positioning the inflatable object acts to hold the outer wall of the inflatable object approximately 0-10mm from the opening of the gas conduit such that when air is delivered through the gas channel pushing against the outer wall of the inflatable object vibration will occur. Accordingly, the mechanism for positioning an inflatable object may alternatively simply be referred to as an object holder, since its primary function is to securely position, reposition, and/or hold an inflatable object in a desired position for operative association with the object. Invented devices (eg, more particularly gas conduits).

The mechanism for positioning the inflatable object is capable of resisting the force of the pressurized gas against the outer wall of the inflatable object during vibration to keep the inflatable object stationary and can be made of any rigid or semi-rigid material made of, such as, but not limited to, metal, plastic, wood, ceramic, resin, rubber, or glass, and may also be designed to include decorative features. In some embodiments, the user's hand and/or fingers may serve as the mechanism for positioning the inflatable object, as shown in FIG. 6 .

Figures 8A-8Q illustrate variations of object holders depicting a non-exhaustive list of shapes for means for holding an inflatable object operatively associated with the apparatus of the present invention. As can be seen from these figures, object holders can take planar or non-planar forms, and can be spherical, oval, polygonal, helical, bisectal (e.g. Figure 8N, where a 3D shape is split in half, which can be given by a variety of materials and can be placed on top/bottom or sides of inflatable objects), or formed into any number of other shapes. Certain embodiments of the object holder may include visual markings to guide the user in properly aligning and/or assembling the object holder and inserting the inflatable object into the device. The object holder may also use friction, hooks, compression, expansion, magnetism, adhesives, human hands, or any method that can hold the inflatable object stationary to allow the pressurized gas to push against the outer wall of the inflatable object and cause the The force against the pressurized gas as the wall vibrates.

Certain embodiments feature systems wherein the mechanism for positioning the inflatable object involves placing the object within the chamber of the gas conduit, wherein a region of the outer wall of the inflatable object is positioned along or within the opening of the gas conduit Or the opening with respect to the gas conduit is positioned in alignment with or otherwise in fluid communication therewith. In embodiments where the object holder comprises an inner wall region of the gas conduit, air must be able to bypass around the inflatable object so that the inflatable object does not completely obstruct the air flow through the gas channel. Thus, the segment of gas conduit holding the inflatable object may have a small diameter and a large diameter, or an inflatable object may be used having a small diameter or a large diameter to provide an air passage around the inflatable object.

For example, in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 13-15 , an inflatable object may be placed in a conduit, pipe, or chamber and the inflatable object held in place using interfacial friction in contact with a structure acting as object holder 201. On, against, or in a pipe, fitting, or chamber. In these embodiments, the large diameter (apex on the inside) surrounding the small diameter (used as the surface area plane of the object holder) allows air to bypass around the inflatable object and does not completely block the passage of air through the gas conduit, allowing the inflatable The walls of the object vibrate and make sound.

Alternative embodiments of the mechanism for positioning an inflatable object may also have a compression interface with threaded fasteners as shown in FIG. Protruding hooks, suction cups or clips grasp one or more discrete locations on the surface area of the inflatable object. Another embodiment, exemplified in Figure 25D, may use one or more rigid or semi-rigid fastening retainers 201 that may be attached to the closed inflatable object in a vertical orientation relative to its outer walls.

vibration gap

The mechanism for positioning the inflatable object facilitates the formation of a vibration gap between the inflatable object and the opposing surface (the opposing surface of the inflatable object or the opposing surface of the gas conduit in fluid communication with the opening to the gas channel, A space formed when positioned to affect airflow and vibrate a volume of pressurized air. As the pressurized gas travels along the air path through the gas channel to the vibration gap, it causes vibration of at least a portion of the outer wall of the inflatable object when it is within about 0-10 mm from the opposing surface. Even if the vibration gap is initially 0 mm, the air pressure of a volume of pressurized air can displace the wall sufficiently to create a gap that exceeds 0 mm and is still less than or equal to about 10 mm. If the vibration gap distance exceeds about 10 millimeters, then the outer walls of the inflatable object are less likely to vibrate enough for the user or listener to experience audible sound.

Vibration voids may be constructed or defined at one or more locations or regions along the outer surface area of the inflatable object using an object holder (eg, a mechanism for positioning an inflatable object according to the invention). When a vibrating gap is formed between two or more opposing surfaces, one of which is the surface of an inflatable object, the space formed between these opposing surfaces can be of any of various shapes through which the pressurized gas can vibrate , the shape includes, but is not limited to, curved, angular, biconvex, or bell-shaped (as shown in FIGS. 23-24 ).

The object holder will generally include two or more vibrating fixation points (connection points) for demarcating and positioning the area of the wall of the inflatable object to be operatively associated with the gas conduit so that the pressurized gas along Vibration occurs when a given air path is conveyed through the gas channel of the gas conduit. The vibrating fixed point allows the inflatable object to be operatively associated with the gas conduit when the distance between the outer walls of the inflatable object is within 0-10 mm in fluid communication with the nearest gas channel segment within the gas conduit.

Certain embodiments have a continuous surface of vibrating fixed points (the vibrating perimeter divides the sections of the wall surrounding the vibrating inflatable object) instead of discrete areas of contact between the inflatable object and the object holder. For example, in one embodiment, the object holder may be the outer wall of one or more gas conduit segments that provides a continuous surface of vibratory fixation points along the vibrating perimeter. A variation of this embodiment is illustrated in Figures 18-20 and has a hollow torus-shaped ring that acts as a gas conduit forming a gas channel to deliver pressurized gas to the vibrating void while being bounded by the gas conduit wall Holes in the torus (innermost diameter) of , provide means for positioning and holding inflatable objects.

In some embodiments, vibration voids may be constructed using a combination of discrete and continuous vibration fixation points. For example, as depicted in Figure 25D, the adjustable tubing positioning mechanism 204 can be used as an additional section of the object holder 201 to provide additional vibratory anchor points for the vertical threaded object holder sections, which are already fixed two opposite sides of an inflatable object.

inflatable object

An inflatable object may refer to an object filled with any gaseous substance, such as atmospheric air, an inert gas, or any other gas that can be safely managed if it escapes from an inflatable object. Such a body remains closed when integrated with the device of the invention for the assembly of the aerophone according to the invention. Once the inflatable object is securely positioned to be operably associated with the gas conduit, using the vibrating fixed point of the object holder to define a vibration gap, a source of pressurized gas can be delivered through the gas channel along the available air path, as defined by the gas conduit. The area formed to vibrate the outer wall of the inflatable object produces vibrations and allows the device to be used as an aerophone. It should be noted that an inflatable object is used as a membranous instrument in the musical instrument classification system when its outer membrane is normally impacted, whereas it is used as Parts of aerophones.

A closed inflatable object can be described as any object (eg balloon, ball) that has an interior space separated from the exterior space or environment by an elastic wall surface. To remain closed during use, inflatable objects may contain pressures above or below atmospheric pressure and may use valves, ties, knotted ends, or O-rings to form a seal. Multiple pieces of different materials may also be stitched, fastened and/or fused together to form an inflatable object. When decompressed below atmospheric pressure, the object can use a rigid structure to maintain its three-dimensional shape. In addition, inflatable objects can be formed by combining elastic surfaces with rigid structures and can be attached to various object holders using external fixation points.

The inflatable object may be spherical, oval, polygonal (eg, having four or more sides), helical, or any mixed combination of these shapes. Inflatable objects can also integrate outwardly or inwardly projecting sections along the ensemble of a single closed object. A non-exhaustive list of inflatable object shapes is illustrated in Figures 12A-12J. Common materials that can be used to make inflatable objects are rubber, mylar, plastic, metal or composites. The wall thickness of the inflatable object closest to the vibration gap may be in the range of about 0.005-10 mm. The wall thickness may be continuous throughout the inflatable object, or the object may have multiple different wall thicknesses at different locations. Inflatable objects are available in diameters ranging from 5mm (when used in conjunction with relatively small diameter object holders) up to 30m (for larger sized musical compositions).

It is understood in the present invention that the diameter of the inflatable object and the material stiffness determine how much air pressure must be applied to produce the desired vibrations from the wall material of the inflatable object. The input pressure of the pressurized gas must be sufficient to cause vibrations in the object wall and thus in the pressurized gas volume flowing along the air passage as the pressurized gas volume exits the gas outlet. Higher durometer body materials such as steel and nitinol require higher input pressures to vibrate than lower durometer inflatable bodies of the same size and wall thickness. Higher durometer materials may require air compressors with pressures up to 5000 psi. Similar to higher durometer materials, objects with thicker walls require more pressure to vibrate and may require up to 5000psi to vibrate. Materials such as rubber, plastic, and Mylar (typically used to make balloon walls of about 0.005-1.0 mm in size, which can be inflated by the user's lungs) can also be easily made to be inflated by the user's lungs Air is delivered at a pressure of 0.001-3psi above atmospheric pressure to vibrate. Thus, the hardness of the material used for the inflatable object can be from Shore 00:00 to any hardness. Depending on the material properties of the inflatable object, the applied pressure values and different wall thicknesses, different vibration characteristics may result. It should also be understood that gases other than air (eg helium, sulfur hexafluoride) may be used inside the closed inflatable body, which may also produce different vibrational characteristics when played.

A closed inflatable object can be realized as a three-dimensional object that produces sounds of varying pitch and volume when it vibrates, depending on properties such as, but not limited to, the material, size, wall thickness, internal air pressure, and shape of the inflatable object. In order to produce audible sound (20 Hz - 20 kHz) by vibrating, the inflatable object must not completely block the passage or flow of air through the gas conduit. There is a relationship between pressure and sound volume where additional air pressure inside an inflatable object requires higher air pressure to be applied to the outside of the inflatable object to create vibrations and thus a louder sound.

In certain embodiments, closed inflatable objects are interchangeable with other closed inflatable objects of different shapes, sizes, designs, wall thicknesses and materials, provided: a) the inflatable objects are still sufficiently secure to fit Within the object holder to remain stationary when operatively associated and in use with the gas conduit, and b) can be positioned to define a vibration clearance of about 0-10 mm with a vibration fixed point.

In an embodiment of the musical instrument according to the invention, the user's lips are not in direct contact with the vibrating inflatable body. Therefore, lip placement is not required when playing this instrument. Any learning curve associated with lip placement is eliminated, making the instrument user-friendly, allowing users to play the instrument immediately without specialized training. The use of closed inflatable objects to adjust the tone quality without the use of lip placement expands the range of performance.

For example, in the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 18-20 , placement of the closed inflatable body within a hollow torus-shaped ring in any orientation is the only assembly required to construct a musical instrument that vibrates audibly, unlike other aerophonic This removes assembly barriers compared to the complex fasteners, tube fittings and reed orientations present in musical instruments.

sound modulation mechanism

In some embodiments, an aeroacoustic instrument may include a mechanism for modulating sound vibrations that may be manipulated by a user as an operable interface. A sound modulation mechanism, which may be integrated into or otherwise connected to the gas conduit, may take the form of generating an initial tone at the vibrating void and modulate it by increasing or decreasing the resistance of the pressurized gas to flow out of the gas conduit. The method of adjusting the resistance may include connecting one or more operable interfaces to the gas conduit segment, adjusting the object holder and thereby the position of the inflatable object and the resulting vibration gap, and adjusting the pressurized gas volume away from the Any other mechanism of resistance of the gas passage of the gas conduit of the musical instrument of the invention.

Sound modulation mechanisms may include any mechanism that produces changes in sound characteristics such as frequency, pitch, timbre, amplitude or phase. For example, frequency refers to the amount of vibration per second, measured in hertz. For example, changing notes, changing octaves, pitch bending and fine tuning all change the frequency of the sound. For example, a flute-like instrument (as shown in Figure 35B) can produce different frequencies at each sound hole. Pitch refers to the perceivable high and low quality of the sound, which is determined by the high and low frequencies respectively. Timbre refers to various characteristics of sound, such as resonance (such as vowels), or the difference in vibration caused by the use of different instrument shapes or materials (such as Mylar vs. rubber). An oboe-like instrument (configured with the vibratory void shown in Figure 24D with the tapered section shown in Figure 42B) can produce the same frequency as the clarinet, but because the biconvex section closest to its vibratory void differs from the single The shape of the reed and the mouthpiece have different timbres compared with each other. Amplitude corresponds to volume in decibels, for example a change in air supply pressure in an instrument might produce a relatively quiet sound of about 60 decibels, or a relatively loud sound of about 90 decibels. Phase refers to the timing of vibrations, for example two identical frequencies may cancel each other out or interfere with each other if they have opposite phases. For example, the musical instrument shown in Figure 50 can produce sounds with the same frequency and amplitude but varying phase. The instrument produces phase cancellation similar to the sounds of Scottish bagpipe baritones, which have the same frequency but may not have the same phase, and produces the unique phase curve of phase cancellation in bagpipe music.

In some embodiments, the operable interface may include sound holes, keys, sliding joints, and/or valves to adjust the total resistance to adjust the vibration within the gas passage, and may allow the user to adjust the inflatable object surface once measured Modulates audible sound characteristics on vibration frequencies above 20 Hz. For example, in an embodiment having sound holes, the specific air path through the gas channel of the gas conduit is lengthened or shortened if the user covers and uncovers either of the sound holes with his finger. While the harmonic frequency of the vibration remains the same, the pitch of the audible vibration becomes lower as more holes closer to the air intake are covered.

In other embodiments, the inner diameter of the operable interface is variable as a means of increasing or decreasing air resistance through the gas passage. In one embodiment, as the diameter of the operable interface increases, the pitch may become higher. In another embodiment, the frequency may decrease as the diameter of the opening of the instrument in fluid communication with the inflatable object becomes smaller. Pressurized gas delivered through the gas channels of an aeroacoustic instrument creates friction that opposes the oscillatory motion produced by the vibration of the inflatable object. In another embodiment, the tone formed by vibrating the walls of the inflatable object decreases as the length of the gas conduit increases.

In certain embodiments, increasing or decreasing air pressure delivered through an aeroacoustic instrument according to the present invention will produce different sound characteristics. For example, if the gas conduit section is made of a flexible material such as, but not limited to, rubber or plastic, the section itself may be squeezed or bent to modulate the tone produced. The use of any mechanism that alters the shape and/or other physical qualities of the gas passages formed by the gas conduits can affect the sound characteristics of the instrument, or notes played using a given instrument according to the invention.

In another embodiment, the user can change the diameter or shape of the holes in the operable interface, including the diameter of the instrument itself as the sound modulating mechanism. For example, openings in gas conduits may contain mechanical irises, flapper valves, spring-loaded keys, expandable rubber rings, chucks, or any mechanism that can change the shape of the opening while playing. These features are similar to how the mute and plunger in a trumpet are used to modulate the sound from the trumpet.

In other embodiments, the shape of any section of the gas conduit, including the operable interface, can modulate the sound characteristics. For example, Figure 36 shows a trombone-like embodiment built from a series of gas conduit segments and slides 604 that would mimic the slide legato tone of a trombone, while Figures 35A-35B include a flute with a sound hole 601, As more holes are covered, it will produce a deeper tone. As shown in Figures 35A-35B, a horn member 603 may be attached to certain embodiments to amplify the loudness while allowing the embodiment to stand on its own when not in use.

In certain embodiments, another vibration and/or sound modulating element or feature incorporated within the gas conduit segment is associated with dimpled or corrugated textures found within the gas conduit inner wall. Such sound-modulating mechanisms can be associated with whistles and whistles in the organ family of instruments, in which sound is produced by pressurized gas passing through or over projecting or sharp edges. The elasticity of the air through the sharp edges helps create high and low oscillating pressures, which in turn create audible vibrations and pitch changes in the instrument. Vibrations from sharp corrugated edges or whistles within the gas duct can in turn modulate the vibration of the inflatable object downstream of the vibration gap (with reference to the air flow from the air source), or vice versa.

Modular design options for aerophones according to the invention allow embodiments of different shapes and sizes with broadened sonic applications and tonal qualities. For example, an instrument with multiple air inlets enables multiple users to play the instrument simultaneously, multiple air outlets allow multiple sounds to be produced from one instrument, and a modular operable interface allows users to easily convert a tuned The style of the musical key and/or operable interface is switched to another (eg, switching from an interface tuned to the key of C using a hole as a sound modulation mechanism to an interface tuned to the key of E using a valve).

tension changing mechanism

An optional tension changing mechanism can be added to embodiments where it can be used to modulate the sound characteristics by compressing or expanding the enclosed inflatable object and/or by repositioning the entire inflatable object to change the vibration gap. Tension changing mechanisms can range from separate structures used by the player's hand and player to features incorporated into the device itself, as well as mechanisms for positioning inflatable objects. For example, adjusting the space or angle of the surface area of the inflatable body at the vibration void, fluid communication with the air outlet on the aeroacoustic instrument can further modulate the sound characteristics of the instrument. The tension changing mechanism of the device itself may be made of, but not limited to, rigid or semi-rigid materials such as wood, rubber, plastic, metal and carbon fiber.

In one embodiment, inflating or deflating a closed inflatable object can be used as a tension changing tool by stretching the wall material of the inflatable object. Inflation or deflation of the inflatable object may also serve as a sound modulating mechanism by adjusting the distance between the outer wall of the inflatable object and the opposing face forming the vibration void.

In another embodiment, compression can be used to adjust the elasticity and tension on the outer surface of the wall of the inflatable object. This results in modulation of the sonic characteristics of the instrument. The ability to change frequency by changing the tension or position of an enclosed inflatable object mimics the way trumpet and horn players use their lips to change frequency when selecting an octave by lip tension. For example, in the embodiment of the musical instrument shown in Figure 34, a rigid tension changing mechanism is threaded through an enclosed chamber of a gas conduit that can be used to apply pressure to an inflatable object, which can increase the pitch of the sound vibrations.

In another embodiment, expansion forces applied from outside the inflatable object can also be used to stretch the outer surface of the wall of the inflatable object to modulate the sound. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 33, three anchor points on the closed inflatable object can be pulled using fasteners that are also attached to the object holder and/or gas conduit. When pulled, a higher pitch is produced as the walls of the inflatable object vibrate.

Visual effects inside inflatable objects

Optional liquids and/or solids may be added to the closed inflatable object before it is sealed to modulate the sound characteristics and simultaneously create visual effects. These embodiments relate to non-electroacoustic sound waves that can be used in vibrating inflatable objects that have been filled to some volume with various liquids (e.g. water, non-corrosive oils) or solids (e.g. sand, microscopic Styrofoam balls) Produce visual patterns and effects.

When a substance other than gas is also sealed within the closed inflatable object, as shown in Figure 12I, the acoustic characteristics of the vibrating inflatable object can become modulated. Modulated sound waves within the object then create simulated visual effects through materials already placed inside the inflatable object that respond to the vibrations by creating geometric patterns or particle motion. These vibration phenomena occur when the air inside an inflatable object is pushed back with a force approximately equal to the amount of air compressed inward. If the gravitational force of a particle or liquid inside the object exceeds the force applied to the outer surface of the object through the gas channel, the vibration may change dramatically from a discernible musical note to a squeaking sound, and eventually become impossible as the magnitude of this force increases listen.

Certain embodiments may provide solid and/or light effects within or around the inflatable object, which may serve a more decorative purpose. For example, the extremely light nature of glitter allows additional visual components to appear inside inflatable objects without greatly affecting the sound of the instrument, while non-similar components (such as battery or gas turbine powered LED lights) can be fixed to inflatable objects. object and/or any adjacent part of the instrument to illuminate it. Additionally, any lights or lasers mounted on the vibrating surface of certain inflatable objects (such as transparent or translucent balloons) can also create visual patterns inside or outside that object.

Assembly and use of air-acoustic instruments

A user can put a closed inflatable object into the object holder of the device according to the invention to assemble a musical instrument according to the invention. The inflatable object, held stationary by a vibration fixation point connected to the object holder, defines a vibration void which provides the function of the musical instrument to generate vibrations, more particularly sound vibrations. In one embodiment, the user may play the instrument by first holding the instrument at one or more sections of its air conduit, and then supplying 0.001-3 psi of air from the user's lungs to the air inlet of the air conduit. Gas is pressurized to vibrate the outer wall of the inflatable object at the interface of the vibrating void. Other optional features of the assembled aeroacoustic instrument may consist of alternate sources of pressurized gas and advanced modular instrument systems.

pressurized gas source

All aeroacoustic instruments require a source of air to produce sound-producing vibrations. In the present invention it is to be understood that a source of pressurized gas may refer to any gas that may be safely used to power a musical instrument. For example, the source of pressurized gas may consist of atmospheric air, an inert gas, or any other gas that can be safely delivered through an embodiment of a musical instrument according to the present invention. Typically, breath is the most readily available source of pressurized gas used in many embodiments, but other embodiments have a different source of pressurized gas used to power the instrument and vibrate the walls of an enclosed inflatable object ( air delivery mode).

For example, air pump shoes (illustrated in Figure 52B) allow the user to use the leg muscles (which are the strongest muscles in the body) to drive airflow and energy input to the instrument. This mode of air delivery reduces the learning curve associated with playing aeroacoustic instruments and can also assist individuals with low lung capacity and/or those wishing to play an instrument in their old age. Using the motion of walking to generate airflow eliminates the learning curve required to blow air on an air-sounding instrument such as bagpipes or trumpet, while giving the user the added element of mobility and physical activity. Mounting the air pump to footwear would allow the user to walk while producing sound while performing with one or more musical instruments.

Embodiments configured to produce sound at a volume sufficient to be heard by spectators in a stadium-sized space or otherwise configured to project sound (approximately 85 decibels at the listening point) over a range of approximately one kilometer may be connected to An air compressor or pump powered to provide sufficient continuous air pressure to vibrate the outer walls of an inflatable object to produce louder sounds. In some embodiments, an air compressor or air pump may be used to relieve the user of breathing, legs, and/or energy, allowing the user to concentrate on playing the aerophone(s) Play aerophones while walking.

Modular Instrument System

In some embodiments, the devices and musical instruments of the present invention can be constructed with interchangeable components, thereby providing a modular musical instrument system. Each of the components of the gas conduit, object holder, and inflatable object, as well as additional features, can be made interchangeably to reconfigure a single instrument embodiment at any time, and create a variety of sound characteristics and capabilities, A system of interconnected musical instruments configured with an operator interface.

In certain embodiments, multiple gas conduit segments and vibrating voids are connected together in a single closed inflatable body. For example, when an inflatable object can be a "reed" for multiple gas channel segments, each gas channel segment uses a different portion of the outer surface area of the inflatable object as a vibration void to produce sound, as shown in Figures 39 and 50 . Traditional reed-based instruments such as bagpipes and reed organs are difficult to tune because each reed detunes at a different speed and needs to be assembled and tensioned individually. Using a single inflatable object to sound from multiple tubes may be a simpler mechanism for tuning, assembling and playing an aerophone.

Other embodiments involve the use of multiple enclosed inflatable objects arranged in an operable interface to generate sound, as shown in FIGS. 44-45 and 47 . In these embodiments, the vibratory void(s) operatively associated with one inflatable object can be a tool for modulating the audible vibration frequencies of another adjacent inflatable object, creating subtle frequency interactions and complex harmonics. wave possibility.

Other embodiments involve producing sound using multiple enclosed inflatable objects connected to multiple operable interfaces, as illustrated in Figure 48B, which illustrates two operable interfaces configured to produce multiple sounds in parallel. As shown in the example of Figure 51, multiple sound-producing vibrations can also be generated in succession, when the sound generated from one vibration void is extended and/or ported into another vibration void on the same or a different inflatable object to produce complex A combination of frequencies to find audible sounds through one or more gas conduit outlets and/or operable interfaces.

In yet another embodiment of the modular aspect of the present invention, locking the note covers allows the user to actuate multiple instruments simultaneously. Locking is defined as a mechanism that allows two objects to be easily attached or separated. Using lock allows the player of the instrument to select the first note and perform other actions and/or select the second note while the lock holds the instrument's first note. For example, using a latch in a piano interface allows you to play nearly impossible sequences of notes by pressing one piano key and freeing your finger to press others. The use of latches on the user interface of all aeroacoustic instruments allows players to sequence three or more instruments using only two hands. The use of a latching hole cover system in an aerophone containing multiple parallel operable surfaces, similar to Irish elbow bagpipes (or other types of bagpipes), allows the user to recover and maintain ergonomics after selecting note changes body posture.

To provide a further understanding of the invention and the embodiments detailed herein, the following examples are set forth below. It should be understood that these examples are intended to describe illustrative embodiments of the invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.

Kits and Instrument Accessories

Modular musical instrument systems, parts and accessories may be constructed into kits for assembling the devices and musical instruments of the present invention. The kit may contain interchangeable instrument or device parts to allow the user to select from different combinations of various object holders, gas conduit segments, inflatable objects, sound modulation mechanisms, or other accessories. Kit parts can come in different sizes, shapes, colors, textures, and/or be made of different materials, allowing for a wide variety of instrument components as well as decorative design elements. For example, inflatable objects and gas conduit segments used in kits may visually represent or be shaped to resemble animals, people, characters, globes, or colors. Interchangeable inflatable objects constructed of different materials or wall thicknesses can produce different sound characteristics in relation to any visual image they represent or their shape, as can segments of air ducts of different shapes and sizes made of different materials in this way. For example, a red inflatable object may produce a different sound when connected to a given device of the present invention than an alternative blue inflatable object. In another example, a chicken-shaped musical instrument configured to vibrate with an egg-like inflatable object may sound differently than a dolphin-shaped musical instrument configured to vibrate with the same inflatable object.

Certain kits may contain additional accessories for gas conduits (segments), object holders, and core instrument components for inflatable objects. For example, a bellows pump may be purchased separately, or may be included in such a basic or simple instrument kit with instructions on how to assemble the instrument, and then use the pump with hands, feet, or a tool (such as a toy hammer) to move the air To supply (convey) into an instrument. Other kits can be constructed to provide for the assembly of more complex instruments by including instructions, and can also include a number of modular gas conduit segments that can become part of a user's larger collection and allow the user to use multiple interchangeable Build and play numerous instrument configurations in different forms with interchangeable inflatable objects, gas conduit segments, object holders, sound modulation mechanisms, and other accessories.

Kits can be provided during events such as birthday parties, sporting events, festivals or other celebrations where a group of people can exchange or share inflatable objects or other parts of their modular instrument systems to produce different sounds and/or or collection of musical instruments. For example, a backyard-sized musical instrument could provide an operational interface for an entire group at a party, which could literally connect family members and friends into the same musical event, enabling spontaneous modular instrument systems, performing and temporary orchestra. At sporting events, a portable embodiment of a modular instrument with multiple mouthpieces and hoses could be assembled, which would allow a group of people to pass through the individual components of the instrument (each comprising a gas conduit, object holder, and inflatable object ) blow and/or motivate their favorite sports team by connecting the hoses of the respective instruments to a single longer gas conduit configured with a larger inflatable object to produce a consistent louder sound. Similar to sports fans using a vuvuzela (a monotonous reed horn) to produce monotonous sounds, instruments according to the invention allow users to use the power of their lungs and produce polyphonic sounds without embolization. sound (simultaneous combination of two or more tones). Kits may also include pipe fittings, pipe fittings, and/or provide instructions for everyday household items that can be used as part of a modular instrument system. For example, plumbing fittings and/or pen cases and/or bottles and/or straws and/or hollow vegetables or other items can be used to create the instrument's gas conduits and can be interchanged. Other kits of different sizes and sizes can incorporate this equipment, i.e. by adding commonly available or easily constructed inflatable objects such as beach balls, urethane balls, balloons, or using latex such as gloves, bubble wrap and for preparing plastic bags for inflatable objects) and assembled into musical instruments.

Kits provide opportunities within the educational realm of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math), where the physics of vibration can be explored using musical instruments. For example, sand placed inside an inflatable object could create simulated visualization of sound waves or patterns as the object vibrates, which could be educational about the physics of sound production. The tactile sensation of squeezing an inflatable object as a subjective measure of pressure could serve as a soothing mechanism while teaching the user about air pressure before the user places the inflatable object in the instrument for performance, which may lead to a range of other ideals spiritual, emotional and educational effects, even without prior musical knowledge. The bouncing power and sound properties of an inflatable object are related to the amount of air pressure inside the object and can be used as a teaching game to connect the physics of air pressure to sound. A modular instrument system with multiple vibratory voids in series can be used to study how one frequency interacts with or affects another frequency, while a modular instrument system with parallel vibratory voids can be used to study phase cancellation. Instructional instructions may also be packaged with the kit, which teach the user about the origin of the material and its properties. For example, the description can teach about rubber as a material, and its biodegradability in ecosystems (for example, the gums that produce rubber in the Amazon region also produce rubber turpentine, which biodegrades natural rubber). The kit can include an inflatable object made of natural rubber (eg, a standard rubber balloon), and a natural terpene (eg, lemon or pine oil) so that it can biodegrade when the inflatable object is ready to be disposed of.

In kits for professionals, interchangeable parts are available for jugglers, musicians, installation artists, circus artists, street performers, and fitness and exercise groups. For example, jugglers can juggle inflatable objects in a performance while producing sounds using the same interchangeable objects in an aerophonic instrument. Kits may include enough parts to form the instruments of an entire orchestra of musicians, providing audiences with a unique audiovisual experience. However, ordinary aerophones do not show the line of sight between the listener and the vibrating material (such as a reed), and the musical instrument that uses the inflatable object according to the present invention to generate vibration can be used on an inflatable object (such as a translucent balloon, equipped with Flashes and lights) and the listener show a line of sight. In addition, modular instruments built by providing kits for professional musicians can have decorative features (such as engraved, engraved or embossed parts), be made of high-quality materials, and can have exhalation valves, fine-tuning mechanisms, and carrying cases. part. In the field of installation art, kits may provide components for assembling large-scale structures and may include components with translational symmetry, rotational symmetry, and/or other modular connectors for assembling gas conduit segments of wide array geometries Gas conduit segment. In the context of circus art, acrobats may attach air-pumped instruments to their arms and wear air-pump shoes, or use spring-loaded air-pump stilts to do backflips as a feed for arm-mounted air-pumps air tool. In the range of sports or fitness, a kit may include an exercise ball which, when placed in the device of the present invention, can perform double duty as an inflatable object. For example, an air pump can be attached to the pedals or crankshafts of multiple exercise bikes in a spinning class to provide air to musical instruments, and the person leading the spinning class can use the air generated by the group to play musical instruments.

The following examples illustrate various aspects and embodiments of the devices and musical instruments of the present invention.

Example 1: Gas conduit with object holder (equipment for assembling aerophonic musical instruments)

The apparatus for assembling an aeroacoustic instrument includes a gas conduit and an object holder, see FIG. The gas inlet 102 is configured to deliver a first volume of pressurized gas through the gas channel 105 in the direction of the air channel 104, and the gas outlet 103 is configured to allow a second volume of pressurized gas to flow out of the gas channel 105 while simultaneously The inflatable object is held stationary relative to the gas conduit 101 by using the object holder 201 . The device may be configured to reverse the direction of the gas passage 104 through the gas channel 105, as shown in FIG. 1B. As long as a volume of pressurized gas can enter and exit the gas conduit, the device will function, with the object holder 201 acting as a mechanism for positioning the inflatable object relative to the gas conduit 101 . For example, in FIG. 1A, the air passage 104 and air flow can be redirected using a vacuum to pull air through the device, forming the air passage of FIG. 1B, as opposed to the player blowing and thereby creating pressure that pushes air through the device. of.

Referring to Figure 1C, an apparatus comprising three gas conduit segments (101A-101C) providing three corresponding gas channel segments (105A-105C) shows how the gas conduit segments protrude into other segments and are assembled to form Device of Figure 1D. Referring to FIG. 1D , the gas conduit 101 and gas channel 105 can enclose the object holder 210 by providing an opening that allows gas to bypass around the inflatable object and allow the gas pathway to flow in either direction only under pressure or only under negative pressure. The air channel facilitates the direction change of the air channel 104 . Referring to FIG. 1E , an object holder 201 may be one or more surfaces within the gas conduit structure that may be used to position an inflatable object, wherein the object holder provides sufficient friction to resist movement of air through the gas conduit 101. applied force. In FIG. 1E the object holder 201 is the closest surface with respect to the central longitudinal axis of the multi-surface gas conduit. Referring now to FIG. 1F, the gas inlet 102 can be located anywhere on the gas conduit 101 so long as the first volume of pressurized gas can enter the gas inlet 102, travel through the gas passage 105 and allow the second volume of pressurized gas to pass through the gas outlet. 103 to leave.

Referring to FIG. 2 , the gas conduit has a chamber 106 which may partially surround an object holder 201 . The object holder 201 may contain a threaded mechanism for positioning an inflatable object protruding through the gas conduit into the chamber 106 .

A gas conduit segment comprising an inlet, an outlet, and any other segments that in turn lengthen or shorten the length of the gas passage can be cylindrical, conical, polygonal, oval, helical, or any other shape, some of which are illustrated in Figure 3A- 3G is shown.

In certain embodiments, the gas conduit includes multiple (eg, two or more) inlets, outlets, and/or other sections to form one or more gas pathways through the gas channel, which can be, for example, Figures 4A-4B may or may not coincide with each other as shown. In certain embodiments, see FIGS. 4C-4D , the outer surface of the gas conduit may serve as the object holder 201 . The apparatus in FIG. 4C may include a tube positioning system consisting of a female tube positioning mechanism 203 and a male tube positioning mechanism 204, both of which are threaded in this embodiment and can be assembled to form The device shown in Figure 4D. Figure 4E shows an alternative embodiment to Figure 1E with two air outlets (103A-103B) that may or may not be covered by the user to vary the length of the air passage and/or the amount of air released from the air outlets. The pressure of the pressurized gas (eg, similar to a flute). For example, if the user were to completely cover gas outlet 103A with a finger, pressurized gas would be expelled through gas outlet 103B. If the user would cover both gas outlets 103A-103B, the pressurized gas would not be able to leave the device, but if the user partially covered gas outlet 103A, a certain amount of pressurized gas would be expelled from both outlets, and If neither port is covered, a greater amount of pressurized gas will exit gas outlet 103A and a smaller amount of pressurized gas will flow out of gas outlet 103B.

In Figure 5A, the gas conduit includes an air inlet 102 at a first end comprising any number of segments or hose attachments that can be connected to the remainder of the gas conduit to initiate delivery of pressurized gas through the gas passage . For example, the air inlet may include a mouthpiece 107 (eg, a blowpipe) through which a user may blow inwardly, or a hose attachment through which air may be provided using a pump. Valve 108 may be used to adjust air resistance or as a one-way valve, or as a toggle valve to initiate delivery of air to the downstream portion of the gas conduit, with reference to gas flow from an air source. An air tank 109, typically constructed of a resilient material such as leather or rubber, may be used to store air and reduce pressure changes. The gas inlet 102 may be positioned anywhere along the gas conduit and may be of any shape that allows air to enter the gas passage provided by the gas conduit. The air inlet mouthpiece 107 may comprise a rubber sleeve to allow for a flexible portion for the user to bite and hold with their mouth and to avoid tooth chipping. The gas outlets 103A-103C illustrate a plurality of exit locations for air to exit the gas conduit 101, which in this embodiment are determined by the first orifice to which the pressurized gas travels along its delivery path. The air outlet may be configured to change the location at which pressurized gas exits the device by changing which holes are covered by the user's fingers to release air.

In another embodiment, see FIG. 5B, the valves 108A-108C may be in a closed state, which allows the user to adjust the airflow between the inlet 102 and one or more outlets 103A-103C. In the device embodiment of Figure 5B, object holder 201 may be one or more exterior surfaces of the device.

In another embodiment shown in Figure 6, the object holder 201 may be a structure or tool that is not connected to the gas conduit when the device is not in use. For example, a user's hand or other body part, a wall, book, cup, or other household item may be used to position the inflatable object relative to the gas passage formed by gas conduit 101 .

In yet another embodiment shown in FIG. 7A , object holder 201 is permanently or semi-permanently secured to gas conduit 101 . Object holder 201 may be essentially any object capable of holding an inflatable object in a sufficiently stationary position to partially block pressurized gas from passing through the gas passage formed by the gas conduit.

7A-7D show that two or more discrete ( 7A and 7C ) or continuous ( 7B and 7D ) connection points between the outer wall of the inflatable object and the object holder are referred to as vibration fixation points 202 . The vibrating fixed point restricts the movement of the outer wall of the inflatable object within a limited area and may be configured to vibrate if the pressurized gas strikes the outer wall of the inflatable object. Referring to Fig. 7C, the vibrating fixed point is the tip of each conical structure, which can also be used as an object holder 201 for inflatable objects. When using an inflatable object with a wall thickness of 0.01-0.5 mm, it is possible to extend the life of the inflatable object if an embodiment with a continuous vibrating fixed point is used (as shown by the circular shape in Figures 7B and 7D).

In Figures 8A-8Q, a non-exhaustive variety of object holder shapes are shown in various views. 8A-8G illustrate various embodiments in which an inflatable object may be retained using the frictional force created when the surface of the object holder is attached to the wall of the inflatable object. The mechanism for positioning an inflatable object shown in Figures 8H and 8I shows how fasteners (tension changing mechanisms) can be used to adjust the degree of friction and/or compression, and also act as object holders to hold the inflatable object against each other. Positioned in the gas channel provided by the gas conduit. Figures 8J-8L Fasteners can be used to compress an inflatable object while maintaining it in a desired position when attached to a device. Figure 8M can hook the inflatable object with a chain link or other mechanism and further position the inflatable object with an eyebolt or other type of similar fastener. Figures 8N and 8O can hold the object in a tapered polygonal interface configuration to allow air to pass around the inflatable object when connected to the device. FIG. 8P may hold an inflatable object between surface areas and/or vertices of a device having a composite shape made of different tube segments protruding into each other. Figure 8Q can hold an inflatable object between multiple surface areas of a helical object holder.

Example 2: Assembly of an aeroacoustic instrument using an inflatable object

Figure 9A shows how an inflatable object 301 can be secured to object holder 201 using a friction interface. Pressurized gas may enter the air inlet 102 in the direction of the air passage 104 , pass through the air passage 105 provided by the gas conduit 101 , impinge on the outer wall of the inflatable object 301 positioned using the object holder 201 , and flow out the air outlet 103 . As was the case in relation to Figures IA and IB, the gas flow in Figure 9A may flow in reverse, which is shown in Figure 9B.

Figure 10 shows an exploded side view of an aerophonic instrument, such as a wind instrument, and includes a female tube segment positioning mechanism 203, which in Figure 10 is for receiving a tube segment integrated into the object holder 201 thread interface. When the male pipe section positioning mechanism 204 is screwed into the female pipe section positioning mechanism to form a pipe section positioning system, the female pipe section positioning mechanism 203 can accurately assemble an aerophone instrument. FIG. 11 illustrates the assembled version of FIG. 10 , which properly aligns the gas conduit 101 with the object holder 201 to assemble the aeroacoustic instrument and position the inflatable object 301 .

Figures 12A-12J illustrate various, non-exhaustive embodiments of inflatable objects that may be connected to various apparatus, musical instrument, and aerophone embodiments of the present invention. The walls of the closed inflatable object completely demarcate the inner space from the outer space, which allows the air inside the object to act as an air spring. The wall thickness of the inflatable object may be 0.001-10 mm, especially in the surface area(s) that may be configured to vibrate. Inflatable objects can take any geometric form. For example, FIG. 12A shows a spherical inflatable object, FIG. 12C is an elongated inflatable object, FIG. 12D is a polygonal inflatable object, and FIG. 12E is an ovoid inflatable object having one or more curvature profiles, It may be a balloon in one embodiment. Any range of wall thicknesses may be used as part of a multi-material inflatable object that may also include multiple thickness and stiffness profiles along its surface. For example, Figure 12B illustrates one embodiment of an inflatable object that includes a seam or joint between two or more materials.

Inflatable objects can be inflated to pressures above atmospheric pressure, while other objects can be stretched or inflated by using fixed points as tension changing mechanisms, as is the case in Figure 12F. It is also possible to deflate an inflatable object to subatmospheric pressure, as is the case in Figure 12G, which can use rigid structures to maintain 3D form while subatmospheric pressure is involved. Referring to Figure 12H, certain embodiments of inflatable objects have multi-surface contours that can be used to deliver air around an object within a cylindrical gas conduit. Any embodiment featuring multiple wall thicknesses in different regions of the surface of the inflatable object may be distinguished by different colors, faces, protrusions and/or indentations. Inflatable objects may have solid and/or liquid particles inside, as is the case in Figure 12I. For example, some particles that may be used in an externally visible manner inside an inflatable object include sand, styrofoam balls, liquids, and/or magnetic fluids. Inflatable objects can be hollow toroidal shapes or other shapes that allow air to pass through them, as is the case in Figure 12J.

In another embodiment, referring to FIG. 13 , an inflatable object 301 may be held by object holder 201 within chamber 106 , which holds inflatable object 301 relative to air passageway 104 and allows the inflatable object to Variable friction is created between the outer wall of 301 and object holder 201 . Methods of creating variable friction between the outer wall of the inflatable object 301 and the object holder 201 include, but are not limited to, fasteners, cams, linear joints, set screws, clamps, and other methods of using fastening to achieve relative motion. The fastener may pass through or protrude through the wall of the gas conduit to enable a user to fasten or loosen the frictional connection between the object holder and the inflatable object.

In one embodiment shown in FIG. 14A , the object holder 201 is the frictional interface between the inflatable object 301 and the inner wall of the air chamber 106 . In embodiments where the object holder 201 is the surface closest to the center point or axis of the gas conduit 101 (specifically, the plane of the polygonal chamber 106 in the present embodiment of FIG. Even if the interface is obstructed, air should still be able to bypass around the inflatable object so that the inflatable object does not completely block the air passage formed by the gas conduit. Thus, the segment of gas conduit that holds the inflatable object, such as chamber 106, can have a large and small inner diameter that will form when the inflatable object is in place. This can be achieved using any shape that features some surfaces closer to a central point in the gas conduit and other surfaces further away from the central point in the gas conduit to allow air to move around the inflatable object.

For example, FIG. 14B shows a top view of an alternative embodiment of FIG. 14A that utilizes friction between the closest surface of object holder 201 (also serving as a section of gas conduit 101 ) and inflatable object 301 . In Figures 14A and 14B, the inflatable object 301 divides the air passing through the air chamber 106 into a plurality of air passages. However, in another embodiment shown in FIG. 15 , the inflatable object can completely block a section of the gas passage 105 as long as one or more alternative air passages exist through the gas passage to allow air to pass through the air inlet. 102 leads to an air outlet 103.

In other embodiments, the object holder may position the inflatable object for resting on the opening of the gas conduit. FIG. 16 shows an object holder 201 in which a user may place an inflatable object over the opening of the gas conduit 101 so that the inflatable solid object is positioned across two or more vibration fixation points 202 . The vibration fixation point is used as a holder for the inflatable object, and vibrations may occur on the outer wall of the inflatable object. In FIG. 16 , air enters the air inlet 102 , travels through the air conduit 101 , and exits the air outlet 103 . The air passageway 104 in Figure 16 can be described as moving through the gas channel section, by being transported from the outer tube section 110 into the gas channel section of the inner tube section 111, by moving through the interstitial space between these two parts. FIG. 17 respectively shows that the air passageway 104 can be described as moving from the inner pipe section 111 to the outer pipe section 110 .

In another embodiment shown in FIG. 18 , the object holder 201 can be the outer wall of the gas conduit 101 . Fig. 19 shows the front view of the instrument shown in Fig. 18, wherein air is supplied to the air inlet 102, passes through the torus-shaped gas conduit 101 to the vibrating fixed point 202 and the inflatable object 301, and then as the air passage 104 Flow out from the air outlet 103 as shown.

To assemble an aeroacoustic instrument, a user connects an inflatable object to an object holder, which serves as a mechanism for positioning the inflatable object relative to the gas conduit and gas passage. As shown in FIG. 20A , as with FIG. 11 , certain embodiments of an aeroacoustic instrument may utilize a system for precisely positioning a segment of gas conduit 101 using segment positioning mechanisms 203 and 204 (in this case threaded connections). Torus-shaped gas conduits can be manufactured using rotational molding or blow molding. To overcome processing limitations, the embodiment shown in FIG. 20B may utilize an insert that includes a threaded female tubing segment positioning mechanism 203 and may interface with a torus-shaped gas conduit using male/female connectors 205 and 206, respectively.

Other embodiments of devices and instruments of the present invention may have combinations of gas conduit segments of different sizes and shapes, which may form symmetrical or asymmetrical composites. Figure 21 exemplifies this modular nature and shows an instrument with an asymmetric shape, characterized in that the gas conduit 101 is divided into sections of different sizes, which also serve as object holders, which in turn provide A vibrating fixed point 202 is provided to hold the inflatable object 301.

Example 3: Exemplary Vibration Gap

Vibration voids are formed by a narrowing of the gas passage that occurs when two opposing surfaces of an aeroacoustic instrument (see Example 2) lie within about 0-10 mm of each other, one or more of which is an inflatable body the wall. Referring to FIG. 22A , air passes through a gas conduit 101 having an indent along its inner wall and a point of vibration 401 where the indent is close to the inflatable object 301 . FIG. 22B shows a top view of the vibrating void 401 shown in FIG. 22A , while a side view with gas channels 104 is shown in FIG. 22C . The vibratory void may be of any shape that may be formed between the outer surfaces of the inflatable object when the inflatable object is positioned in operative association with one or more segments of the gas conduit. In the musical instrument shown in Figures 22A-22C, if the surface of the inflatable object is positioned within about 0-10 mm of the indent along the inner wall of the gas conduit, vibrations are generated. In FIG. 22D, the vibration gap distance 402 depicts the 0-10 mm distance threshold required between the surface of the inflatable object and the opposing surface of the gas conduit in order to generate vibration. In this way, as long as the pressure of the gas moving through or by the vibration void 401 is high enough, the aeroacoustic instrument will vibrate.

Referring to Figures 23A-23H, the vibratory void may be of any shape so long as the surface of the inflatable object 301 is positioned to operably associate with the opposing surface of the gas conduit within about 0-10 mm. 23A-23E show how the surface of the inflatable object and the inner surface of the gas conduit form a narrowed gas channel, wherein if the vibration gap distance 402 is between about 0-10 mm, then two or more opposing Vibration gaps are formed between the surfaces.

Referring to FIGS. 23A-23E , a vibration gap may be formed between the surface of the gas conduit 101 and the inflatable object 301 . Figures 23A-23D show a vibration void formed by the surface of a spherical or oval inflatable object combined with a gas conduit containing dimples, while Figure 23E shows a cylindrical gas channel as well as a non-spherical inflatable object, as long as the vibration void The non-spherical inflatable body forms a vibration void at a distance 402 between about 0-10 mm.

Within the vibration gap, the distance between the vibrating portion of the wall of the inflatable object and the opposite surface of the gas conduit may exceed 10 mm once the vibration of the wall of the inflatable object is initiated by means of delivery of pressurized gas. Changing the shape of the vibration void can change the frequency, pitch and/or other sound characteristics of the vibrations. Referring to Figures 23F-23G, the vibration gap may be formed by one or more opposing surfaces of the inflatable object or surfaces between the inflatable object and the inner wall of the gas conduit. For example, FIG. 23F shows three vibration gap distances 402A-402C between three surfaces, wherein if any one vibration gap distance is between about 0-10 millimeters, the vibration gap can be configured to generate vibration. In the illustration of Figure 23G, which has the inflatable toroidal object of Figure 12J, as long as any vibration gap distance 402A-402C between two or more opposing surfaces is between about 0-10 mm, the vibration gap is Can be formed by narrowing the passage of gas through the inflatable object. Referring to Figure 23H, two or more inflatable objects can form a vibratory void between two or more opposing surfaces.

Figures 24A-24F show examples of differently shaped gas channels in an assembled aerophone embodiment and illustrate how vibrational voids exist on any surface of the inflatable object 301 and along the air passage 104 of the gas conduit 101 Between any opposing surfaces (see FIG. 24B ), as long as the vibrating air gap distance 402 is between about 0-10 mm. Figures 24C-24F illustrate how gas channels of different shapes may be configured within the instrument. Different shapes of gas conduits and channels create different tonal qualities from the sound generated in the vibrating void.

Referring to Fig. 25A, the vibrating void 401 is slightly closer to the side of the inflatable object and gas conduit 101, which does not interfere with the function of the aerophone, as long as the air is confined to the surface of the inflatable object and the part of the gas conduit containing the passage to the gas. A gap of approximately 0-10 mm in size between opposing surfaces of the opening. FIG. 25B shows that the threaded object holder 201 can facilitate placing an inflatable object 301 on one side of the gas channel, or create an approximate gap between the inflatable object and the opposing surface of the gas conduit that contains the opening to the gas channel. 0-10 mm distance.

Referring to FIG. 25C , one embodiment of an aeroacoustic instrument can include a threaded male tube segment positioning mechanism 204 that can facilitate creation of a vibration gap by adjusting the vibration gap distance 402 . For example, FIG. 25D is the musical instrument of FIG. 25C in which the end of the tube positioning mechanism 204 has been positioned about 0-10 millimeters away from the surface of the inflatable object 301 .

Referring to Fig. 26, the vibration void may be located within a tube section protruding within the chamber section 106 of the gas conduit. Embodiments of musical instruments may include means to reduce or increase the size of the vibration gap, such as a sliding frictional connection between the tube segment and the inflatable body, and/or the user may reposition the inflatable body to increase or decrease the vibration gap distance. As shown in the pipe section positioning mechanism 204 in FIG. 27 , a threaded pipe section may be used to create a vibration gap 401 . Figure 28 shows a variation of the torus shaped instrument of Figure 19 and illustrates a detailed view of the helical method for lengthening or shortening the gap between the surface of the gas conduit and the opposing surface of the inflatable object. In FIGS. 27 and 28 , the vibrating fixed point 202 provides stability to the vibrating surface of the inflatable object 301 .

Referring to Figure 29, a vibratory gap 401 may exist between any opposing surface of the gas conduit and the inflatable object, regardless of whether the air pathway 104 runs from the outer tube section 110 to the inner tube section 111, or from the inner tube section 111 to the outer tube section 110 (cf. Figure 30).

Example 4: Exemplary Tension Adjustment Tool

Inflatable objects can be differentially inflated or tensioned as a means of changing the tension of their surface areas.

Referring to Figure 31, the inflatable object 301 may use a means of sealing gas within the inflatable object 501, which in one embodiment is a valve. In other embodiments, the means of sealing the inflatable object is a knot, clip, o-ring, plug, glue, adhesive, sticker, or any other method for sealing the inflatable object.

By inflating the inflatable object, the surface tension of the walls of the inflatable object increases. Inflatable objects can also be deflated using rigid structures within the object to increase the surface tension of the object (eg, the inflatable object in Figure 12H). Referring to Figure 32, which is an embodiment similar to the inflatable body of Figure 12H, a rigid structure 302 may be placed within or attached to the material to create a structural component that is less than atmospheric pressure within the sealed inflatable body while resisting structural collapse. The gas-filled body may be surrounded by argon or other inert gas to create a plasma effect within the gas-filled body at sub-atmospheric pressure. Although the inflatable object of FIG. 32 has a rigid structure within it, multi-material inflatable objects can be sewn, adhered, fastened or joined together to create a container that maintains subatmospheric pressure.

The inflatable object may contain fixed points 303, as shown in FIG. Expansion forces 503, which may be driven by mechanisms such as, but not limited to, cams, lead screws, and rope clutches.

Referring to Figure 34, a compressed inflatable object can be used as a tension adjustment tool using positioners such as, but not limited to, threads, slip fit connections, and cams. FIG. 34 shows a threaded object holder that can be adjusted to compress an inflatable object 301 .

Example 5: Exemplary Sound Modulation Mechanism

Sound can be modulated within an aerophone instrument using the method of modulating air resistance, which in turn modifies the sonic characteristics of the inflatable object. 35A-35B show an aerophone configured with four independent sound modulation mechanisms: sound hole 601, pipe section sound modulation mechanism 602 (which has dual function as pipe section positioning mechanism 204), horn attachment 603, and female /Male tuning connectors 605 and 606, which can shorten or extend the gas conduit to achieve the purpose of fine-tuning the frequency produced by the aerophone. The sound hole 601 (also used as an air outlet) can lengthen or shorten the air path within the gas channel formed by the gas conduit in order to modulate the frequency of the vibrations produced using the instrument and at the same time vary the position at which the pressurized gas exits the instrument. For example, if all sound holes are covered, the horn attachment 603 can amplify the lowest notes on an airborne instrument as pressurized gas exits the instrument through the opening of the horn attachment. In Figures 35A-35B, by covering the sound hole 601 as a sound modulation mechanism, the aerophone instrument can also produce sounds of different frequencies. The aerophone in Fig. 35A uses a torus-shaped gas conduit as shown in Fig. 8F, which can be connected with a male connector 205, wherein the internal thread inside the part can be used as a female tube segment positioning mechanism 203 to overcome rotational molding and blow molding manufacturing process limitations. By adjusting the length of the gas tubing using the female tuning connector 605 and male tuning connector 606, the frequency of the gas horn can be fine tuned. The detailed diagram on the left side of the main figure in FIG. 35A shows that the male tube segment positioning mechanism 204 can also be configured to change the vibration gap distance 402 by adjusting the distance between two or more surfaces of the vibration gap, thereby playing a role in sound modulation. The dual functionality of the device 602. The assembled version of the instrument in Fig. 35B illustrates that by increasing the vibration gap distance 402 and using the pipe position positioning sound modulation mechanism 602 to modulate the sound produced in the vibration gap 401, the instrument can produce different sound timbres, pitches and/or harmonics.

Referring to Figure 36, another tool for sound modulation is the slide joint 604, which can lengthen or shorten the air passage and change the sound characteristics of aeroacoustic instruments, specifically instruments like but not limited to trombones and slide didgeridoos.

In the aerophone of FIG. 37, one or more valves 108 can be utilized to lengthen or shorten the air passage, which can modulate the sound characteristics produced by the aerophone, in particular instruments like, but not limited to, trumpet and tuba.

The sound can be modulated by adjusting the air pressure within the gas conduit upstream of the vibrating void 401 with reference to the air flow from the air source. For example, in Fig. 38, valve 108 may be used to restrict the amount of air, or increase the amount of air supplied, it may be used as a modulating tool for fine-tuning the instrument, or in other embodiments to turn the instrument on or off. It should be noted that the valve 108 may be any type of method for increasing or decreasing the pressure within the air line, for example valves may include curved hoses, ball valves, piston valves and rotary valves. In the aerophone of Figure 38, the sound hole 601 can be used to further modulate the sound. In another embodiment shown in FIG. 39, an inflatable object may use valves 108A-108C to provide air from an air source 701 to an air conduit and ultimately deliver the air to one or more vibrating voids 401A-401C. The aerophonic instrument shown in Figure 39 can use multiple valves and vibratory voids in an organ-like assembly.

The specific shape of the gas channel(s) closest to the vibration void can modulate the sonic characteristics of the aeroacoustic instrument. For example, Figures 24A-24F illustrate various pipe segment shapes related to vibration voids, which may affect vibration characteristics. Referring to Figure 40, the vibration void can be adjusted using a sound modulating mechanism such as a vibration void positioner 607 that can push or pull a flexible, rigid or semi-rigid tube section and thereby adjust the shape of the vibration void to achieve modulated sound characteristics. For example, a circular or ovoid vibratory void shape might sound similar to the linguistic vowels "O" or "U," while a crescent-shaped vibratory void might sound similar to the vowel "I" or "E" ". The Vibration Gap Locator 607 can produce specific tones by adjusting the shape of the vibration gap between one or more inflatable objects and one or more pipe segments, and can use positioning systems such as threads, cams, slide fittings, latches , rack and pinion or other systems to drive. As shown in Figures 25A-25D, changes in the position of the inflatable object may also result in changes in pitch, timbre, volume, and harmonics.

Instrument configurations that result in sounds produced by a first vibration result in modulation by a second vibration (by manipulating the volume of pressurized gas), and can mimic the sound of a didgeridoo or a fluctuating verbal "R" (e.g. trill). For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 41 , the first vibration generated in the vibration gap 401B and the second vibration generated in the vibration gap 401C can modulate the third vibration generated in the vibration gap 401A. In the embodiment of FIG. 41 , the frequency generated at vibration voids 401B and 401C can be modulated using slide joint 604 to dynamically modulate the vibration generated at vibration void 401A before traveling through the gas channel to vibration void 401A, which Modulation can be further performed using the sound hole 601 .

Another way to modulate the sound is to swap tube (gas conduit) segments by adding or subtracting tube segments to the instrument. Figures 42A-42E show examples of tube segments that may be interchanged to modulate sound. Referring to the sound modulating tubing shown in Figures 42A-42E, the shape of the tubing upstream or downstream of the inflatable object with reference to air flow from the air source can change vibration characteristics, can be interchanged, or added to the gas conduit. In general, a more bulbous section will change the vowel to an "O" or "U", while a narrower section will change the vowel to something like an "E" or "I". As shown in Figure 42B, tapered bore pipe segments can produce sounds similar to, but not limited to, bagpipes, saxophones, or oboes.

Example 6: Modular Instrument System

Referring to FIG. 43A, a single inflatable object 301 positioned within gas conduit 101 may create one or more vibratory voids 401A-401C. A top view of the same musical instrument is shown in FIG. 43B, where vibration voids 401A-401C can produce vibrations of different frequencies and/or pitches and/or timbres.

In one embodiment, referring to Fig. 44, an aeroacoustic instrument may comprise one or more inflatable bodies (301A-301B) and one or more vibration voids (401A-401B). In another embodiment, referring to Fig. 45, an aeroacoustic instrument may comprise one or more inflatable bodies, and one or more vibration voids (see 401A-401D) located on each body.

In another embodiment, referring to FIG. 46, a single inflatable object can host one or more vibrating voids 401A-401C within a gas conduit having one or more gas outlets, while in FIG. 47, the gas conduit can carry a or a plurality of inflatable objects (301A-301B), and one or more vibration voids (401A-401C) having one or more air outlets 103A-103C.

The embodiment with reference to FIG. 48A may use one or more inflatable objects to define one or more vibration voids 401A-401B, and have one or more air outlets 103A-103B. Fig. 48B is an embodiment similar to the instrument of Fig. 48A, the illustrated embodiment may contain more than one sound modulating mechanism, as shown, with two interfaces of sound holes 601A and 601B. As shown in FIG. 49, an aerophonic instrument can incorporate multiple vibration voids 401A-401C that can produce a tone through each of its corresponding air outlets 103A-103C, and can utilize threaded pipe sections 602A-602C as A tool for dampening sound from vibrating voids 401A-401C.

Referring to FIG. 50, an aerophonic instrument may comprise an inflatable object 301 defining one or more vibration voids and one or more air outlets distributed in a three-dimensional form, wherein the inflatable object may be held in the object It is inflated while remaining inside the piece. Alternatively, referring to FIG. 51 , an aeroacoustic instrument may utilize a single inflatable body 301 having one or more vibration voids 401A-401H, through an air conduit utilizing a single air outlet 103 to generate multiple vibrations.

Referring to Figures 52A-52B, a gas source 701 is required to supply gas to an aerophone to generate vibration and sound. Air may be supplied to the gas conduit using the player's lungs, an air compressor, a piston, a bellows, or any source of air pressure delivered through an air inlet to any embodiment of the musical instrument according to the invention. Referring to Figure 52B, the user can use the air pump shoe 704 to generate pressurized gas by pumping the bellows 702 with his legs and feet, which can be used as an alternative source of pressurized gas for any aerophone connected to the air discharge hose 703 , and the hose is connected to the air inlet of the aerophone. Alternative sources of pressurized gas, such as air pump shoes 704, may allow the user to sing or vocalize while generating vibrations through an aerophone.

Certain embodiments may utilize non-linear pipe sections, and/or may be hundreds of feet long, while pipe sections in other embodiments may be relatively short. Referring to Figures 53A-53C, certain embodiments of aeroacoustic musical instruments are shown that can produce a decibel volume of sound in the range of 40-95 decibels. Figure 53A shows a low register aeroacoustic instrument with air ducts ranging in length from 18 inches to 50 feet and producing vibrations at about 40-95 decibels at about 20-500 Hz. Referring to FIG. 53B , an air-acoustic instrument in the tenor register has an air duct length between 12 and 48 inches and produces a frequency between about 120-700 Hz at about 40-95 decibels. Referring to FIG. 53C , an air-acoustic instrument in the mid-range range can have air duct lengths ranging from 3 to 18 inches and produce frequencies between about 200 Hz and 2000 kHz at about 40-95 decibels.

The inventions of all patents, patent applications, publications and database entries mentioned in this specification are hereby expressly incorporated by reference in their entirety to the same extent as if each such individual patent, patent application, publication and database entry was incorporated by reference. is specifically as if individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

Although the invention has been described with reference to certain specific embodiments, various modifications thereof will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. All such modifications as would be apparent to a person skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.

List of reference signs

101 gas conduit

102 air inlet

103 air outlet

104 gas passage

105 gas channels

106 chamber sections

107 mouthpiece

108 valve

109 gas storage tank

110 outer pipe section

111 inner pipe section

201 object holder

202 vibration fixed point

203 vaginal section positioning mechanism

204 positive pipe section positioning mechanism

205 male connector

206 female connector

301 Inflatable objects

302 Rigid structure of inflatable objects

303 Fixed points on inflatable objects

401 vibration gap

402 vibration gap distance

501 Method for sealing gas in inflatable objects

502 fasteners

503 represents the expansion force exerted on the fastener 502

504 compression thread interface

601 sound holes

602 pipe section sound modulation mechanism

603 horn accessories

604 sliding joint

605 female tuning connector

606 male tuning connector

607 Vibration Gap Locator

701 air source

702 Bellows

703 air discharge hose

704 air pump shoes

Claims (37)

1. An apparatus for assembling a borygmus instrument, comprising:

a) A gas conduit with a first end and a second end and one or more sections for forming a gas channel;

b) One or more gas inlets, each gas inlet disposed at the gas conduit to form a gas inflow location and configured for delivering a first volume of pressurized gas to a gas passage of the gas conduit;

c) One or more gas outlets, each gas outlet disposed at the gas conduit to form a gas outflow location and configured to release a second volume of pressurized gas along one or more gas passages in the gas channel, each gas passage being defined along the gas conduit by a location of one of the one or more gas inlets and a location of one of the one or more gas outlets; and

d) Means for positioning the inflatable object to operatively associate the inflatable object with the gas conduit,

Wherein when an inflatable object is operatively associated with the gas conduit using the mechanism for positioning an inflatable object and a first volume of pressurized gas is delivered into the gas conduit via one of the one or more gas inlets, a wall region of the inflatable object vibrates and causes a second volume of pressurized gas to vibrate within the gas channel as some or all of the second volume of pressurized gas exits the gas conduit from one of the one or more gas outlets.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein when the inflatable object uses the mechanism for positioning the inflatable object to be operatively associated with the gas conduit, a vibration void is formed through which vibration of the wall region of the inflatable object causes vibration of the second volume of air.

3. The apparatus of claim 1 or 2, wherein the mechanism for positioning an inflatable object comprises one or more vibration fixation points to keep the inflatable object stationary in a desired position.

4. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein one or more sections of the gas conduit each define a section of a gas channel.

5. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein one of the one or more sections of gas conduit is interchangeable with another section of gas conduit.

6. The device of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the device further comprises one or more sound modulation mechanisms.

7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein one of the one or more sound modulation mechanisms comprises a means to change one or more gas passages, a means to change a position of an inflatable object and maintain an operative association with the gas conduit, or a means to change a tension of a wall of the inflatable object when operatively associated with the gas conduit.

8. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein one of the one or more sound modulation mechanisms comprises a section of one or more gas conduits; one or more of a mouthpiece, a sound hole, a key, a valve, a slide tube, a horn attachment, and a tuning connector; a mechanism for positioning the inflatable object to be operatively associated with the gas conduit; a mechanism for deflating or inflating and resealing the inflatable object; a fastener operably associated with an actuation mechanism for stretching a wall of an inflatable object; sand, foam balls, and other rigid or semi-rigid structures placed inside inflatable objects.

9. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein two or more apparatuses are connected to engage their corresponding gas conduits and increase available air passages.

10. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein one of the one or more gas inlets is configured to be operably associated with a pressurized gas source.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein one of the one or more air inlets is configured to have a mouthpiece for receiving pressurized air from a user's lungs.

12. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein one of the one or more gas inlets is configured with a connection for receiving pressurized gas from a pump.

13. A borygmus musical instrument, comprising:

a) Apparatus for assembling a borygmus instrument, comprising:

i) A gas conduit with a first end and a second end and one or more sections for forming a gas channel;

ii) one or more gas inlets, each gas inlet being arranged to the gas conduit to form a gas inflow location and configured for delivering a first volume of pressurized gas to a gas passage of the gas conduit;

iii) One or more gas outlets, each gas outlet disposed at the gas conduit to form a gas outflow location and configured to release a second volume of pressurized gas along one or more gas passages in the gas channel, each air passage being defined along the gas conduit by a location of one of the one or more gas inlets and a location of one of the one or more gas outlets; and

iv) a mechanism for positioning the inflatable object to operatively associate the inflatable object with the gas conduit,

b) An inflatable object operatively associated with the gas conduit using the mechanism for positioning the inflatable object,

wherein when an inflatable object uses the mechanism for positioning the inflatable object to be operatively associated with the gas conduit and a first volume of pressurized gas is delivered into the gas conduit via one of the one or more gas inlets, a wall region of the inflatable object vibrates and causes a second volume of pressurized gas to vibrate within the gas channel as some or all of the second volume of pressurized gas exits the gas conduit from one of the one or more gas outlets.

14. The air-ringing musical instrument of claim 13, wherein when the inflatable object uses the mechanism for positioning the inflatable object in operative association with the gas conduit, a vibration void is formed through which vibration of the wall region of the inflatable object causes vibration of the second volume of air.

15. A wind instrument according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the means for locating the inflatable object comprises one or more vibration fixation points to keep the inflatable object stationary in a desired position.

16. A wind instrument according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein one or more sections of the gas conduit each define a section of a gas passage.

17. A wind instrument according to any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein one of the one or more sections of gas conduit is interchangeable with another section of gas conduit.

18. A wind instrument according to any one of claims 13 to 17, wherein the apparatus further comprises one or more sound modulation mechanisms.

19. The air-blast musical instrument of claim 18 wherein one of the one or more sound modulating mechanisms comprises a means of changing one or more gas passages, a mechanism of changing the position of an inflatable object and maintaining operative association with the gas conduit, or a mechanism of changing the tension of a wall of the inflatable object when operatively associated with the gas conduit.

20. The borygmus instrument of claim 18, wherein one of the one or more sound modulation mechanisms comprises a section of one or more gas conduits; one or more of a mouthpiece, a sound hole, a key, a valve, a slide tube, a horn attachment, and a tuning connector; a mechanism for positioning the inflatable object to be operatively associated with the gas conduit; means for deflating or inflating and resealing the inflatable object; a fastener operably associated with an actuation mechanism for stretching a wall of an inflatable object; sand, foam balls, and other rigid or semi-rigid structures placed inside inflatable objects.

21. A wind instrument according to any one of claims 13 to 20 wherein two or more of the devices are connected to engage their respective gas conduits and increase the available air passages.

22. A wind instrument according to any one of claims 13 to 21, wherein one of the one or more air inlets is configured to be operatively associated with a source of pressurized gas.

23. The borygmus instrument of claim 22, wherein one of the one or more air inlets is configured with a mouthpiece for receiving pressurized air from a user's lungs.

24. The borygmus instrument of claim 22, wherein one of the one or more air inlets is configured with a connection for receiving pressurized gas from a pump.

25. A method of assembling a wind instrument comprising the steps of:

a) There is provided an apparatus comprising:

i) A gas conduit having a first end and a second end to form a gas channel;

ii) one or more gas inlets, each gas inlet being arranged on the gas conduit to form a gas inflow location and configured for delivering a first volume of pressurized gas to a gas passage of the gas conduit;

iii) One or more gas outlets, each gas outlet disposed on the gas conduit to form a gas outflow location and configured to release a second volume of pressurized gas along one or more gas passages in the gas channel, each air passage being defined along the gas conduit by a location of one of the one or more gas inlets and a location of one of the one or more gas outlets; and

iv) a mechanism for positioning the inflatable object such that the inflatable object is operatively associated with the gas conduit, and

b) The inflatable object is positioned in operative association with the gas conduit using the mechanism for positioning the inflatable object.

26. The method of claim 25, wherein when the inflatable object uses the mechanism for positioning the inflatable object to be operatively associated with the gas conduit, a vibration void is formed through which vibration of a region of a wall of the inflatable object causes vibration of the second volume of air.

27. The method of claim 25 or 26, wherein the mechanism for positioning an inflatable object comprises one or more vibration fixation points to keep the inflatable object stationary in a desired position.

28. The method of any one of claims 25 to 27, wherein one or more sections of the gas conduit each define a section of a gas channel.

29. The method of any one of claims 25 to 28, wherein one of the one or more sections of the gas conduit is interchangeable with another section of the gas conduit.

30. The method of any one of claims 25 to 29, wherein the apparatus further comprises one or more sound modulation mechanisms.

31. The method of claim 30, wherein one of the one or more sound modulation mechanisms comprises a mechanism that alters one or more gas passages, a mechanism that alters a position of an inflatable object and maintains an operative association with the gas conduit, or a mechanism that alters a tension of a wall of the inflatable object when operatively associated with the gas conduit.

32. The method of claim 30, wherein one of the one or more sound modulation mechanisms comprises a section of one or more gas conduits; one or more of a mouthpiece, a sound hole, a key, a valve, a slide tube, a horn attachment, and a tuning connector; means for positioning the inflatable object in operative association with the gas conduit; a mechanism for deflating or inflating and resealing the inflatable object; a fastener operatively associated with an actuation mechanism for stretching a wall of the inflatable object; sand, foam balls, and other rigid or semi-rigid structures placed inside inflatable objects.

33. A method according to any one of claims 25 to 32, wherein two or more devices are connected to engage their respective gas conduits and increase the available air passages.

34. The method of any one of claims 25 to 33, wherein one of the one or more gas inlets is configured to be operably associated with a pressurized gas source.

35. The method of claim 24, wherein one of the one or more air inlets is configured with a mouthpiece for receiving pressurized air from a user's lungs.

36. The method of claim 24, wherein one of the one or more gas inlets is configured with a connection for receiving pressurized gas from a pump.

37. A method for generating vibrations, comprising the steps of:

a) Assembling a wind instrument according to any one of claims 25-34; and

b) A first volume of pressurized gas is delivered into the gas conduit via one of the one or more gas inlets, thereby causing a wall of the inflatable object to vibrate.

Images